Despite a 3-1 loss to Orlando Pirates, Golden Arrows coach Manqoba
Mngqithi highlighted his team’s resilience and growing maturity as key
takeaways from their Betway Premiership clash.
After falling behind, Arrows fought back competitively, pulling a goal back
through Philani Khumalo in the second half and pressuring the Buccaneers
before late substitutes sealed the win for the visitors.
Mngqithi firmly dismissed the idea that a slow start was due to nerves. “I
wouldn’t think it was the nerves,” he stated post-match. “The team has grown
in leaps and bounds in terms of confidence.” He acknowledged that conceding
the first goal was a wake-up call but insisted, “I still believe the boys
played very well in patches.”
The coach pointed to his team’s ability to force a seasoned side like
Pirates into a defensive low block in the latter stages as proof of their
quality and hard work.
The match day was also a occasion for celebration, as midfielder Siyanda
“Skhwishi” Ndlovu was announced as the winner of both the Player of the
Month and Goal of the Month awards for October.
Mngqithi was effusive in his praise for the young star, calling him “one of
the brightest youngsters at the moment.” He described Ndlovu’s award-winning
strike against Stellenbosch as “a top international goal” and a strong
statement for national team selection.
“He’s been very consistent for the longest time,” Mngqithi said. “If he
keeps going, stays humble and works very hard, I’m very optimistic he will
get a call-up because he deserves it.”
Despite the result, Arrows remain in a solid mid-table position. The team
now shifts its focus to the Carling Knockout, where they will face Marumo
Gallants in a semi-final this Sunday.
