Golden Arrows cruise past Chippa United to reach Carling Knockout quarter-finals

Golden Arrows secured their place in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals with a convincing 4-0 victory over Chippa United on Saturday afternoon, watched by incoming coach Mandla Ncikazi from the stands.

Junior Dion opened the scoring in the 11th minute, heading in a cross from Philani Kumalo to give Arrows an early advantage.

The Durban side doubled their lead in the 23rd minute. Dion turned provider, threading a carefully weighted pass through to Sabelo Sithole, who kept his composure to beat Stanley Nwabali and score his first goal of the season.

Chippa struggled to threaten Dumsani Msibi during the opening 45 minutes and were unable to build any sustained attacking pressure. Arrows, by contrast, looked dangerous down the right, with Sithole causing problems for the visitors’ defence and creating opportunities with a series of crosses that his team-mates could not convert.

Chippa manager Brandon Truter responded at half-time with three substitutions, bringing on Azola Tshobeni, Justice Figuareido and Boy Madingwane in an attempt to change the course of the match.

The changes took time to have an impact. Chippa’s first clear opportunity did not arrive until the 70th minute, when Figuareido created space for Sergio Kammies. Kammies evaded one challenge but sent his effort narrowly over the crossbar.

Arrows then put the result beyond doubt with seven minutes remaining. Ayabulela Maxwele’s ball over the top found Nhlanhla Zwane, who rounded Nwabali before finishing into an unguarded net.

Jerome Karelse completed the scoring four minutes later, curling an excellent effort into the top corner in the 85th minute to confirm Golden Arrows’ progress into the last eight.

The result came during a week of change for Golden Arrows, who parted company with Pitso Dladla. That decision opened the way for Ncikazi, the former Pirates assistant coach, to take charge, although he did not occupy a place on the bench against Chippa.

Ncikazi will now prepare for his first match in charge, with Golden Arrows due to face AmaZulu away next weekend.

Golden Arrows’ next five fixtures are AmaZulu away, Marumo Gallants at home, Orlando Pirates away, Kruger United at home and Polokwane City away.

Chippa United will next visit Stellenbosch FC before hosting Sekhukhune United, Kaizer Chiefs, Marumo Gallants and AmaZulu.