Betway Premiership
By Sello Masilo
Golden Arrows ended their winless streak in the Betway Premiership with a crucial 1-0 victory against Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday evening. The solitary goal from striker Knox Mutizwa early in the second half proved decisive, lifting Arrows’ spirits and impacting the league standings.
First Half: Polokwane City’s Early Dominance
From the outset, Polokwane City displayed attacking intent, pressing high and creating opportunities despite having less possession. In the opening minutes, Bonginkosi Dlamini unleashed a long-range effort that narrowly sailed over the crossbar, signaling the home side’s ambitions.
Golden Arrows responded with a notable attempt around the 15-minute mark when Nduduzo Sibiya and Knox Mutizwa combined effectively, but the Polokwane defense remained resolute, averting the danger.
As halftime approached, Polokwane’s Cole Alexander attempted a slicing shot, resulting in a corner. Despite dominating the attacking play, Polokwane City couldn’t convert their chances, leaving the scoreline unchanged at the break.
Second Half: Mutizwa’s Decisive Strike
The second half commenced with renewed vigor from Golden Arrows. Just three minutes in, Knox Mutizwa capitalized on a defensive lapse, chipping the goalkeeper from a tight angle to give Arrows the lead. This goal shifted the momentum, with Arrows gaining confidence and asserting more control over possession.
Polokwane City sought an equalizer, coming close in the 64th minute when Simon Ramabu narrowly missed connecting with a cross that flashed across the goalmouth. Shortly after, Oswin Appollis tested Arrows’ goalkeeper, Ismail Watenga, with a shot from outside the box, but Watenga was equal to the task.
In the final ten minutes, Golden Arrows focused on maintaining their lead, showcasing defensive discipline to secure all three points.
Match Details
• Polokwane City: M. Sapunga; S. Makhubela, B. Nikani, L. Nkaki, L. Ndlovu; C. Alexander (P. Tlolane 61’), M. Kambala, S. Ramabu (S. Goovadia 90’); T. Letshedi (N. Raphadu 75’), O. Appollis, B. Dlamini.
• Golden Arrows: I. Watenga; S. Cele, T. Mantshiyane, G. Shitolo, K. Phillips; D. Lukhele (N. Zwane 68’), N. Dlamini, V. Ndwandwe; N. Sibiya (S. Sibeko 86’), B. Cele (T. Tlolane 46’), K. Mutizwa (A. van Rooi 86’).
Post-Match Reactions
Golden Arrows’ head coach expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance:
“The boys showed great character today. Ending our winless run was crucial, and Mutizwa’s goal was a testament to our hard work.”Polokwane City’s coach reflected on missed opportunities:
“We started well but couldn’t capitalize on our chances. It’s a tough lesson, and we need to be more clinical in front of goal.”
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