Golden Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi is confident his team can finish in the top eight of the Betway Premiership, despite a lackluster performance against Stellenbosch on Wednesday night. With ten games left, Mngqithi believes his team has the potential to secure a top-eight spot and qualify for next season’s MTN8.
The Arrows attack struggled to show flair or skill on the ball in the first half, with Mngqithi expressing his disappointment at the team’s inability to create opportunities to score. However, the team’s defensive display was solid, with Ayanda Jiyane earning the Player-of-the-Match award for his rock-solid performance at the back.
Top Eight Finish in Sight
Mngqithi’s optimism is fueled by the team’s current position in the league, with three KZN teams now featuring in the top 10. However, the path to a top-eight finish won’t be easy, with tough games against Sekhukhune United, Orlando Pirates, and Durban City looming.
According to the Premier Soccer League standings, Sekhukhune United have outsmarted and outplayed their way into the top three of the Premiership and will pose a huge threat for Mngqithi’s men on Sunday. Sekhukhune may have scored fewer goals than Arrows this season, but they’ve also conceded only 19, pointing to a more compact defense compared to Arrows’ 26 goals conceded.
Key Games Ahead
Here are the upcoming games for Golden Arrows:
- Sekhukhune United on Sunday
- Orlando Pirates
- Durban City
Mngqithi’s pragmatic approach to the season is evident in his comments, with the coach focusing on consolidating points and securing a top-eight finish. With seven wins from 25 games, Mngqithi is under no illusions about the challenges ahead, but remains optimistic about his team’s chances.
