Lerajane United Brothers FC U19 shows improvement against Baroka FC Youth

Lerajane United Brothers FC U19 team displayed remarkable growth over a series of three challenging fixtures against the Baroka FC youth team at the Ngwanamohube Sports Ground in Ga-Mphahlele, earlier in June. The young squad suffered defeats in all three encounters but demonstrated significant improvement by the final match.

In the opening contest, Lerajane United Brothers FC fell to a 4-0 defeat against their professional counterparts. The second match proved even more challenging as they endured a 5-0 loss. However, the third and final game revealed the team’s rapid development, with Lerajane narrowly losing 3-2 in what was a much-improved performance.

Coach Mogau Phala of Lerajane United Brothers FC expressed satisfaction with the experience gained by his players from facing a professional side. “Playing against a professional side was an eye-opener for my boys,” Coach Phala remarked. “We identified our weaknesses and areas that need improvement. The games highlighted the importance of proper fitness training, tactical awareness, and technical abilities.”

The coach noted that his players, while talented, need more exposure to professional environments and better equipment to enhance their performance. He observed that transitioning from their usual training on gravel grounds to playing on lawn presented a significant challenge for the team, affecting their initial performances.

In an encouraging development, Baroka FC youth has shown interest in signing one of Lerajane United’s players. The talented youngster is expected to join Baroka’s development team from September, marking a significant milestone for the Lerajane club. Coach Phala has high ambitions for his players, expressing hope that many will eventually be selected to play for major South African clubs including Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Baroka FC.

The team expressed deep gratitude to various supporters who contributed to making their participation in these matches possible. Upon The Rock Church, Royal Bapedi House, and Bapedi Queen Manyaku Thulare provided crucial backing for the young squad. Lawrence Mogwaneng offered transportation services, while parents of the players showed unwavering support throughout. Assistant coaches Cosmos and Mr. Matsimela provided tactical guidance, with additional support coming from Reporter Newspaper for publicity and Mohlaletse Bicycle Club. Their collective contributions were instrumental in facilitating this valuable opportunity for the young players.

Coach Phala said that the experience was enriching both for himself and his players. He highlighted the importance of learning professional tactics and organisational skills that can only be gained through exposure to professional settings. “These matches were not just about the results, but about the growth and development of these young players,” Coach Phala stated. “The improvement we saw in the third match, where we narrowly lost 3-2 after heavier defeats, shows the rapid learning and adaptability of our team.”

Looking ahead, Lerajane United Brothers FC plans to arrange more fixtures against professional sides such as Black Leopards FC, Pretoria Callies, Sekhukhune United and Mamelodi Sundowns to continue building on the experience gained. Coach Phala believes that consistent exposure to higher levels of competition is essential for the development of his players. Both the Lerajane coach and Baroka FC’s youth coach expressed mutual respect following the series of matches, acknowledging the value of such encounters for football development at the grassroots level.

Phala also thanked the chairman of Baroka FC Kurishi Mphalele for gracing them with his presence during the gemes.

The journey of Lerajane United Brothers FC U19 serves as an inspiring example of how determination, support from the community, and exposure to professional standards can accelerate the development of young talents in South African football.