Arrows Part Ways With Goalkeeper As Pitso Dladla Rebuild Begins

Sportswire has been reliably informed that Lamontville Golden Arrows have terminated the contract of goalkeeper Thakasani Mbanjwa.

Mbanjwa joined Abafana Bes’Thende at the start of last season. As Arrows marched to an impressive sixth-place finish in the Betway Premiership under former coach Manqoba Mngqithi, Mbanjwa featured in 12 matches across all competitions, registering four clean sheets.

Competition for the number-one spot was fierce in Durban last term, with Arrows consistently rotating between Edward Maova and Xolani Ngcobo.

Maova emerged as the most utilized goalkeeper for the club, featuring in 15 matches across all competitions and keeping seven clean sheets.

Meanwhile, the 32-year-old Ngcobo, who previously had a stint with Royal AM, made nine appearances and kept a single clean sheet.

Mbanjwa’s abrupt departure comes on the heels of a massive technical team overhaul at the club. Following Mngqithi’s exit, Arrows have appointed Pitso Dladla, who arrives from Durban City, as their new head coach.

Dladla will be supported by assistant coach James Madidilane and goalkeeper coach Jacob Mokhasi. Madidilane steps in to replace Musa Bilankulu, while Mokhasi takes over from Marcus Mashilo.

Meanwhile, looking ahead to the new campaign, Arrows have reportedly secured the signature of Ronaldo Van Neel from Hungry Lions to bolster their squad options.