Sekhukhune United secured a 2-0 victory over Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership on Saturday afternoon at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, extending their unbeaten run and climbing to second place in the league standings.
The hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance.
Just three minutes into the match, Trésor Tshibwabwa Yamba Yamba rose above the Golden Arrows defense to meet a well-placed free-kick from Keletso Makgalwa, heading it into the back of the net to give Sekhukhune a 1-0 lead.
The early goal sent a clear message to the visitors that Babina Noko were determined to continue their strong start to the season.
Sekhukhune’s set-piece threat was apparent once again in the 18th minute when Tshibwabwa nearly doubled the lead.
The towering defender connected with a corner kick delivered by Mcedi Vandala, but this time, his header sailed off target, much to the relief of the Arrows defense.
Golden Arrows, meanwhile, struggled to find their rhythm.
Despite their efforts to push forward, they were largely contained by Sekhukhune’s disciplined defense.
By the time the halftime whistle blew, the hosts were still in control, holding a slender but deserved 1-0 advantage.
The second half began much like the first, with Sekhukhune United on the front foot.
Just four minutes after the restart, they found their second goal.
Vandala, who had been influential throughout the match, capped off a well-worked team move with a clinical finish.
Thabang Monare provided the assist, threading a pass through the Golden Arrows defense that Vandala latched onto before calmly slotting the ball into the net.
The goal, Vandala’s first in the top flight, put Sekhukhune in a commanding 2-0 lead.
Golden Arrows, now trailing by two goals, sought to change the momentum by introducing substitutes Bongani Cele and Sbonelo Cele just after the hour mark.
Coach Mabhuti Khenyeza hoped the fresh legs would spark a comeback, but Sekhukhune remained resolute.
Despite some late pressure from the visitors, Babina Noko’s defense held firm, ensuring that they walked away with all three points.
The defeat marked a second consecutive loss for Golden Arrows, dropping them to fifth in the league standings.
They will look to bounce back when they travel to face Chippa United on October 26.
Sekhukhune United, meanwhile, will hope to continue their impressive form when they meet Royal AM away after the FIFA international break, also on October 26.
A win in that match could see them solidify their place at the top of the table as they aim to build on their momentum in the Betway Premiership campaign.
Golden Arrows will be eager to regroup and get back to winning ways, while Sekhukhune will look to extend their unbeaten run in what is shaping up to be an exciting season for the club.
