SEDIBENG.- Former Orlando Pirates and Platinum Stars midfielder Solomon Mathe has joined Motsepe Foundation Championship club Lerumo Lions FC as an assistant coach to Tshepang Maphari. The two have come a long way since their day at Thongathi.

Maphari worked as Thongathi’s technical advisor.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Mathe said he is happy to be reunited with Maphari, especially after a warm welcome by the club’s management, technical staff, and players.

Mathe was involved with the SAFA Sedibeng Hollywood Men’s Regional League club, Mmabatho, before joining Lions FC three weeks ago.
Lions FC is currently ranked 10th on the log with 11 points. Mathe said he has no doubt this North West-based club will move up the ladder.
Since he joined the club, they have collected seven points from three games.

“I’m happy to be part of this ambitious club that is ready to challenge the league title. Everyone has been good to me since day one. I’m very familiar with the surroundings here because I was playing for Platinum Stars,” said Mathe.

Mathe started his amateur football career with the now-defunct Boipatong Real Ranger FC.

The team made history when they reached the Last 16 of BobSave, now known as the Nedbank Cup. This was before losing 5-1 to Maritzburg United at Zamdela Stadium in Sasolburg. Some of the players that Mathe played alongside, who also made a name for themselves in the top-flight football, include Papi Zothwane and Lungisane Ndlela.

He later joined Orlando Pirates development and was promoted to Yebo Yes FC, which was part of the Pirates development campaign in the Vodacom League.

He rose to stardom when promoted to the senior team. Mathe also had a short stint with Bloemfontein Celtics.