Golden Arrows confident MTN8 defeat will not derail season progress

Golden Arrows manager Pitso Dladla says his side’s MTN8 semi-final exit will not overshadow the progress they have made this season, despite losing to Mamelodi Sundowns on the away-goal rule.

Abafana Bes’thende were eliminated after a 3-3 aggregate draw with Sundowns, known as The Brazilians, following the second leg at King Zwelithini Stadium. Sundowns advanced because they scored more away goals across the two matches.

The result also ended Golden Arrows’ unbeaten defensive record. The team had not conceded in any competition before the tie, but Dladla believes the disappointment should be viewed in the context of the positive development within his squad.

“We are proud of these boys, and the good thing is that what we see in the matches is what we see in training, because how you train is how you play. There are a lot of individuals who are developing nicely in this team so we are very happy.”

Dladla, the former Durban City coach, praised Golden Arrows for continuing the work they began last season. The team finished sixth under Manqoba Mngqithi and have carried that progress into the current campaign.

Although there have been some alterations to the squad and its approach, Dladla said the changes had not been substantial.

He is now hoping the club’s run in the MTN8 will give the players additional motivation as they prepare for the rest of the season. The semi-final defeat brought their cup campaign to an end, but Dladla believes the experience can still contribute to the team’s development.

Golden Arrows will have the opportunity to respond immediately when they face Sundowns again in the league on Sunday. The fixture will take place at King Zwelithini Stadium, the same venue where their MTN8 tie was decided.

Dladla is expected to rely on a largely familiar line-up, although goalkeeper Edward Maova and captain Ayanda Jiyane remain unavailable because of injury.

The coach said his players were ready for another demanding contest against Sundowns, with the cup result still fresh in their minds.

“On Sunday we will be back here at King Zwelethini and I believe we are ready for the game against Sundowns.”

Golden Arrows will therefore attempt to put the MTN8 disappointment behind them while maintaining the momentum built since last season. Their defensive run has ended, but Dladla remains convinced that the team’s performances and the progress of several individual players provide encouraging signs for the campaign ahead.