Times Of Swaziland: Lesotho spoil Billen's debut as Silangu coach

Lesotho spoil Billen's debut as Silangu coach
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NTOKOZO MAGONGO on 13/10/2012 00:00:00


MASERU – In the first game in charge of the team, Sihlangu’s new coach
Valere Billen was not good enough as his team lost 1-2 to Lesotho.
The team which is currently in the mountainous kingdom where they will play two
friendly matches against the 158th ranked country, allowed the home team to come
from behind and snatch victory in a match watched by about 1 500 fans.
Wonder ‘Samba Jive’ Nhleko who made a resounding return to the team
following a two-year absence put the country ahead converting from the spot.
This was after striker Nhlanhla ‘Mshengu’ Kunene was brought down inside the
box and the Malanti Chiefs player made no mistake from 12 yards, a minute before
the half hour mark. two minutes later, a handball inside the box by Sihlangu
defenders resulted in another penalty, this time for Lekuena, Lekuena as the
Sothos are affectionately called. Striker Ganu Maile converted from the spot to
level the terms.
After the break, Sihlangu were a goal behind, when the troublesome Tshepo scored
from close range past an outstanding Mphikeleli Dlamini.
Billen had shockingly left on form striker Sidumo Shongwe who had scored in the
previous two games, on the bench ahead of a rusty Nhlanhla ‘Mshengu’ Kunene.
Uncapped Man-zini Sundowns’ new signing Mlamuli Nkambule might have broken new
records, when at 17 years of age got his first start at senior national team
level.
He was later rested for Mduduzi ‘Juries’ Gama later in the game as the
Belgian made about five changes in a bid to claw back the game. However, his
efforts all proved futile as he lost his first game in charge, a result that
stretched Sihlangu’s winless streak on the international stage.