Joseph Musonda of Golden Arrows
Lamontville Golden Arrows coach Muhsin Ertugral says the return of Joseph Musonda has helped to stabilize his defence.
The 35-year-old did not feature for Abafana Bes’thende during the second half of the 2011/12 season after picking up an injury while representing Zambia at the Africa Cup of Nations in January.
The start of his 2012/13 season was also delayed as he waited to acquire his South African citizenship in order to registered as a local player, but he has since returned to the squad to take part in the last two games (against Free State Stars and Black Leopards).
“He (Musonda) puts the last part of the defensive structure together, which is vital for us,” said Ertugral.
“He helps with the organisation, getting our defensive line to be in good shape. His experience and his presence makes a big difference, so it makes me happy to have him in the lineup.”
Arrows have conceded four goals in six games so far and Ertugral believes they can forget last season’s poor defensive showing where they shipped in 49 goals in 30 matches.
“Last season we had the third worst defensive record in the league and this season we have conceded one goal in the last four games, so our defence is getting better,” he said.
“We also have Ritus (Krjauklis) who is a great player, also an international and always in the starting lineup for Latvia. He has brought a sharper element to our defence.
“The other defenders that we had last season are also getting better and better and we also have a great goalkeeper (Pavels Steinbors), so we should do much better compared to last season.
“But of course football is about scoring goals as well and that’s also something we’re working on.”
Arrows will continue their Absa Premiership campaign with a trip to the Bidvest Stadium to face Bidvest Wits on Saturday afternoon.