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Likoebe knew just how to rattle the net

Meshack Motloung

Meshack Motloung

Former Kaizer Chiefs lethal striker Leonard Likoebe has gone the way of all flesh.

Likoebe, affectionately known as "Wagga Wagga" because of his blistering speed, died at the Helen Joseph Hospital on Tuesday after a short illness.

He was one of the most dangerous strikers this country has produced and would have walked straight into the South African national team.

Born in Ladybrand 52 years ago, he played for Maseru United and later moved to Durban to play for Zulu Royals.

In 1977 he moved to Jozi to play for Kaizer Chiefs, with whom he excelled, scoring crucial goals.

Former teammate Zachariah "Computer" Lamola said Likoebe was one of the best strikers then.

"He was a rare striker and used to score important goals. He was full of respect and would never harm a fly," said Lamola.

"He was born a striker and seldom left the field without scoring."

Likoebe left Chiefs in 1982 and joined Wits University. He continued to rattle the net with a monotony that was sickening for his opponents.

In 1985 he got into soccer development at the Safa development centre in Klipspruit, Soweto .

Lamola said Likoebe always wanted to plough back into the community: "He was a good coach."

Likoebe, of 10934 Beefoot Street, Protea Glen Ext 12, will be buried at the Avalon Cemetery tomorrow.

The service will be held at the Roman Catholic Church in extension 2, behind the Sweet Home daycare centre at 8am. The cortege leaves for the cemetery at 10am.

Likoebe is survived by his widow, his daughter, two sons and a granddaughter.

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