Lerumo Lions turn to veteran Mwape Musonda to replace departed striker

Lerumo Lions coach Tshepo Maphari says the club signed experienced striker Mwape Musonda because they needed a proven finisher to convert the chances they create.

The 35-year-old joined Lerumo on a one-year contract, with the option of extending the deal by a further year, after leaving Black Leopards. Black Leopards’ relegation to the ABC Motsepe League prompted the Zambia international to seek a new challenge, and Lerumo offered him the opportunity to continue playing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Musonda made his Lerumo debut against Hope at Dobsonville Stadium on Friday, but had limited influence in front of goal.

The club accepts that he may need time to regain his sharpness after joining a new team. However, expectations are high because Lerumo are looking to him to fill the gap left by Ntuthuko Mlothwa’s departure for Betway Premiership club Chippa United.

Mlothwa was joint top scorer in the league last season alongside Ronaldo van Neel, with both players finishing on 13 goals. His move has left Lerumo without one of their main sources of goals, increasing the importance of Musonda’s contribution.

Maphari said the club would be patient while the striker settles into his new surroundings, while remaining confident that he can eventually provide the finishing touch Lerumo have been missing.

“We create so many chances and we feel like we needed a goal poacher, someone experienced who will finish the chances,” Maphari told Soccer Laduma after the match against Hope.

“Today (Friday) was his first game and I think it will take a bit of time for him to regain his sharpness, but he is someone we are banking on to bury the chances we are creating.”

Maphari added that Musonda had already spent close to two months with the squad, although the club’s usual approach was to give experienced signings sufficient time to adapt.

“He’s been with us for a while. It’s been almost two months that he has been with us,” he said.

“Normally, that’s what we do. When we have an experienced player, we allow them and give them time to settle.”

Lerumo have taken eight points from their opening six matches of the season. Their record stands at two wins, two draws and two defeats.

The total represents an improvement on their start last season, when they had collected four points after six games.