Dladla Explains Unbeaten Defensive Record Ahead Of MTN8 Semi-Final Against Sundowns

Golden Arrows coach Pitso Dladla has revealed that continuity, communication and collective defending have been key to his side’s impressive defensive record this season.

Abafana Besthende remain the only team yet to concede a goal across both the Betway Premiership and MTN8 this season, with Dladla crediting the consistency within his defensive unit for their strong start.

Arrows have played four league matches so far, opening their campaign with three consecutive 0-0 draws before finally finding a winning goal in their fourth match, when they defeated Stellenbosch 1-0 on Wednesday.

Their defensive record has been equally impressive in the MTN8. Dladla’s side began their cup campaign with a clean sheet against Kaizer Chiefs in the quarter-finals, securing a 1-0 victory, before producing another shutout against Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of their semi-final.

Arrows secured a 1-0 victory over Sundowns in Pretoria last Sunday, giving them a crucial advantage heading into Sunday’s second leg.

Dladla believes the fact that most of his defenders were already at the club last season has helped the team develop a strong understanding and organisation at the back.

“What I can say is that it’s not like I came with a big difference, but the beautiful thing about Golden Arrows is that it is a club that doesn’t release players,” he said.

“If you can see the defenders that we have, they are defenders that were here last season. So these boys know each other, know how to play together, and have good communication.

“We tried to make sure that the new players must know our style of play, especially the way we defend. Another thing is that when it comes to defending, it’s not the job of the defenders only, but everyone must defend if we don’t have the ball.”

The 2009 MTN8 champions will head into Sunday’s second leg with a one-goal advantage, and Dladla believes their midweek league victory has provided his players with additional confidence.

“This win was very important besides the fact that we are going to play the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final,” he added.

“Our bread is here in the league, so we can’t do well in the cup games and not do well in the league.

“But I think at the same time, this win gives us confidence ahead of the game against Sundowns on Sunday, especially on the ground we’re going to play on Sunday.”

Arrows are now 90 minutes away from reaching the MTN8 final, where they would have an opportunity to challenge for their second title in the PSL era.

A victory over Sundowns on Sunday would also represent a significant moment in the club’s history. Since their MTN8 triumph in 2009 under the guidance of Manqoba Mngqithi, Arrows have not reached the final of any major competition.