Golden Arrows launch new era with emphatic Chippa United win

Golden Arrows ended a five-match winless run in all competitions by beating Chippa United 4-0 to reach the Carling Knockout quarter-finals at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Sede Dion, Sabelo Sithole, Nhlanhla Zwane and Jerome Karelse were on target as Abafana Besthende produced a convincing display in their first match since the dismissal of coach Pitso Dladla.

Chippa United, known as the Chilli Boys, were hoping to respond after their defeat by Kruger United, but Golden Arrows quickly established control and took the lead after 10 minutes.

A precise corner found Dion at the near post, where he rose to head the ball beyond goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Golden Arrows continued to press and doubled their advantage in the 23rd minute. Thokozani Khumalo and Dion exchanged passes after moving into deeper positions before finding Sithole, who calmly placed a first-time finish into the bottom corner.

Sithole remained a constant threat as he operated between the lines and moved towards the edge of the penalty area. He was denied a second goal when Nwabali saved his curling effort aimed at the near post.

Chippa United made three substitutions at half-time, bringing on Boy Mohlometsi, Justice Figuareido and Azola Tshobeni after a disappointing first half.

The changes gave the visitors more attacking intent. Goodman Mosele attempted to reduce the deficit with a first-time volley from the edge of the box, but his effort was comfortably held by Golden Arrows goalkeeper Dumisani Msibi.

Golden Arrows then recovered their momentum and came close to scoring again when Jerome Karelse sent Sithole through behind the defence. Sithole, however, shot into the side-netting from a narrow angle.

The result was secured with seven minutes of normal time remaining. Zwane timed his run to beat the offside trap, collected the pass in behind the defence and rounded the advancing Nwabali before finishing into an unguarded net.

Chippa United were exposed again shortly afterwards. Karelse, the former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, received the ball near the edge of the area and curled a superb effort into the top corner, leaving Nwabali with no chance.

Golden Arrows will face AmaZulu away in their next fixture, followed by home matches against Marumo Gallants and Kruger United. They will then travel to Orlando Pirates and Polokwane City.

Chippa United’s next five matches are away to Stellenbosch FC, followed by home fixtures against Sekhukhune United, Kaizer Chiefs, Marumo Gallants and AmaZulu.