It was a sad day for Carling Knockout champions Magesi FC as coach Clint Larsen announced his departure from the club after they were defeated 3-0 by the All Star Team in the Carling Black Label Cup at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
After the match, Larsen, who rewrote history books after winning the Carling Knockout in style when they nailed Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 in the final in Bloemfontein last year, shocked all and sundry when he announced his departure during the post-match interview.
“Our players looked tired. It has been very difficult, and we have played seven away games in a row,” Larsen said on Supersport TV.
Last game with the team
“This is officially my last game with the team. I want to thank the players, the technical team, the supporters and, most importantly, the chairman for giving me an opportunity to lead the team for the last two years.
“Time will tell how the players will take it. Some are going to be sad and others are going to be happy. But they are strong, and they will continue to make the club proud.
“I am giving the team an opportunity to bring fresh energy and a new coach to take the club forward. We won promotion, and that stands out for me. And winning a major trophy [Carling Knockout] in only four months in the PSL will remain with me for many years. I wish the club everything of the best going forward,” added Larsen.
All Star Team
Back to the match, Dikwena tsa Meetsi were no match for All Star Team. They were given a free soccer lesson. And for the second time in a row, the All Star Team have won the tournament. The team is coached by Orlando Pirates trainer Jose Riveiro.
Maybe Magesi underestimated the All Star that is teeming with young, unknown players and some PSL superstars.
Magesi was definitely not the side we witnessed slaughtering Pirates 3-2 and knocking them out of the Carling Knockout in the Last 16. The club went on to cause one of the biggest upsets when they lifted the trophy after nailing the millionaires of Pretoria Sundowns 2-1 in the final in Bloemfontein last week.
Naledi Hlongwane scored a brace. While Kaizer Chiefs’ midfield workhorse Samkelo Zwane, who was given acres of space, grabbed the other goal for Riveiro’s side.