FORMER striker Noko Matlou is up for the challenge of playing as a defender after she was converted by Banyana Banyana coach Vera Pauw.

Matlou made her debut at the back in Windhoek last Saturday where Banyana defeated Namibia 2-1 in a friendly.

"It's great to be back in the team. I had a long chat with coach Vera and the technical staff about the switch. At first I was not sure if I will be able to cope," said Matlou yesterday.

"That was the decision of the coach, it was a tough one for me because I have never played as a defender since I started kicking the ball.

"I was a bit nervous in the game against Namibia but gradually gained confidence as it progressed. I will have to adapt to the new role given to me.

"The good thing is that I'm restricted when it comes to overlapping," said Matlou.

Matlou has played 90 games for Banyana with 61 goals to her credit.

Banyana are now in Harare to play an international friendly match against Zimbabwe at Rufaro Stadium tomorrow. They are preparing for the African Women's Championship finals in Namibia in October.