Makateng makes debut

MASERU – Lesotho international Katleho Makateng made his debut for Richards Bay in South Africa’s DSTV Premiership on Tuesday in a goalless draw with Marumo Gallants.

Makateng started the match and lasted 67 minutes before he was replaced by Siyanda Msani.

It wasn’t a scoring debut for the former Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) hitman but he made his presence felt in his hour of action as a second striker alongside Moses Mthembu.

Makateng, who sealed the dream move to South Africa’s elite league last month, had a couple of shots at goal including one from more than 35 yards that was saved by Gallants keeper Washington Arubi at around the 38th minute mark.

Makateng’s famed work-rate also shone through as he won a few free-kicks for Richards Bay although nothing came of them.
Makateng missed his new side’s season opener against Golden Arrows on Sunday because of a delay in getting his playing licence.

After finally making his bow on Tuesday for the Kwazulu-Natal based club, the 23-year-old said he was delighted to play his first game and the outing was a good experience he will improve on.

“Of course, I had goosebumps before the match and it was not really a surprise that the coach decided to put me in the starting line up,” Makateng said.

“The preseason games I played after arriving at the club helped me a lot in terms of settling into the team and building my confidence for the start of the new season,” he continued.

As of yesterday afternoon, Richards Bay were top of the DSTV Premiership before another round of fixtures kicked off later.

The newly-promoted outfit are unbeaten after two games and have collected four points from a possible six.

Makateng will hope to keep his place in the starting line-up on Saturday when Richards Bay host Sekhukhune United at King Zwelithini stadium.

He said he will continue to work hard to score goals.

“The target as a striker is to continue to score goals. I know it’s a different league and different environment to where I was in the previous season, but I will continue to work hard to achieve my goals,” he said.

Makateng made the switch to KwaZulu-Natal from LDF after impressing for the national team in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and 2022 COSAFA Cup last month.

The striker also won the Vodacom Premier League golden boot award last season after he scored an impressive 20 goals for LDF.

Makateng’s display for the club and country attracted interest from several clubs across the border, but Richards Bay acted fastest to snap up his services.

Tlalane Phahla