Lioli, Captain, Basia Makepe,left
Mikia Kalati
DEFENDING Vodacom Premier League champions Lioli have been dealt a major blow following the return of inspirational captain Basia Makepe to LMPS.
According to Lioli president Lebohang Thotanyana, Lioli and LMPS made a one-year swap loan deal for Makepe and Tšepo Seturumane at the beginning of the 2015/16 premier league season.
This was after Makepe, who is also the national team captain, signed with LMPS at the start of the campaign after getting employment as a police officer.
During his loan spell, the highly-rated defender helped the Teyateyaneng-based outfit to a double of LNIG Top 8 and league titles.
“A one-year swap loan deal was the initial arrangement between Lioli and LMPS. So, Seturumane has returned to Lioli, while Makepe has gone the other way,” Thotanyana said.
“Obviously, it is a big blow for us, because he has been an important member of our squad. Since his arrival, Makepe has been a good servant of the club and his replacement will have big shoes to fill.”
However, the Lioli boss did not rule out the possibility of Makepe once again wearing the maroon and gold in the new season, saying the two clubs would soon hold a meeting in which Tse Nala hope to ink a new deal for his services.
“I cannot say for certain what will happen at the meeting. Everything will depend on what the two clubs will agree to.”
Meanwhile, the defending champions this past week announced the signing of former Likuena striker Thapelo Tale whose contract with Likhopo expired in the 2015/16 season.
Tse Nala have also snapped up Setho Moshoeshoe, who is back in the country after years in the United States where he was on a study and football scholarship alongside the likes of Jane Tšotleho, Napo Matsoso and Lepekola Seetane.
Lioli get their new season underway against LMPS on Saturday at Setsoto stadium.