By Agnes Amondi,

Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana recorded a 3-0 win in their first match of the year, an international friendly against Lesotho played at Tsakane Stadium on Sunday.

Rhoda Mulaudzi’s first half brace and a solo goal from second half substitute Sibulele Holweni, were enough to hand the home side victory.

Mulaudzi first struck in the 6th minute and completed her brace at the stroke of half time. Holweni went on to score her first goal for Banyana Banyana in the 79th minute.

Regular players including captain Janine van Wyk, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Leandra Smeda, Nothando Vilakazi, Refiloe Jane and Noko Matlou who were not considered for this match which head coach Desiree Ellis used to extend her pool of players.

She handed a new cap to Nonhlanhla Mthandi of Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies.

“It was not a spectacular performance but players did what they had to do to get a win. I am happy that we got to get a positive result without the many regulars who were not here.

At the end of the day, I believe it was a worthwhile exercise – although you cannot judge on just one match, we now have an idea of what we have in our pool, and if a need comes, we know where to replenish or strengthen,” said Ellis.

GoalKeeper Andile Dlamini played her 50th match for her country.

“I still can’t believe it, I am still a bit emotional that it has been such a long journey and this is but just another step to many more.

This was a very special day for me, 50th cap on International Women’s Day and a clean sheet – what more can I ask for?” said a beaming Dlamini.

“I have a huge respect and am inspired by all those players who have reached this point and gone beyond because I now know it was not easy – they had to work to get here.

I would like to thank all my coaches, my family and teammates for all the support, and want to add that those coming after me must not give up even when they feel it is tough, as it will be.”
Lebogang Ramelepe also captained the squad for the first time ever.

“In the beginning I was a bit nervous but after a while I settled down and started enjoying my game. What pleases me more is that in my first game as captain we end up on the winning side, and that is a lovely feeling.

I am forever grateful for the opportunity to lead my country and would like to thank everyone for the support,” said Ramalepe.

Ellis made several changes to introduce fresh legs – Holweni, Noxolo Cesane, Karabo Dhlamini and Ongeziwe Ndlangisa for Amanda Mthandi, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Robyn Moodaly and Mamello Makhabane respectively.

This is how they lined up
Banyana Banyana

Andile Dlamini (GK – 50th cap), Lebohang Ramalepe (c), Koketso Tlailane, Mamello Makhabane (Ongeziwe Ndlangisa), Bongeka Gamede, Amanda Mthandi (Sibulele Holweni), Robyn Moodaly (Karabo Dhlamini), Nonhlanhla Mthandi (Noxolo Cesane), Tiisetso Makhubela, Hilda Magaia, Rhoda Mulaudzi
Subs 
Jessica Williams (GK), Lebogang Mabatle, Noxolo Cesane, Sibulele Holweni, Lorraine Makhoali, Nomvula Kgoale, Ongeziwe Ndlangisa, Neliswa Luthuli, Karabo Dhlamini
Head Coach: Desiree Ellis

Lesotho:
Thuto Maifo, Mosili Motsoeneng, Tsoanelo Leboka, Nkotso Mapota, Matseliso Ntsasa, Lisebo Lesaona, Kefuoe Makoa, Mafusi Phesolo (c), Thato Sentje, Litseoane Maloro, Nthabeleng Potsane
Subs:
Mashekoe Mosetlhe (GK), Mosilinyane Lefaphana (GK), Retsepile Moiloa, Litsoanelo Matete, Mating Monokoane, Lindiwe Taaso, Mathebe Ramphielo, Matseliso Makutoane, Mamoruti Ntsiki
Head Coach: Lire Phiri