Golden Arrows extended their fine run of form with a commanding 4-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.
Abafana Bes’thende, buoyed by their recent cup success, notched their fifth win in six matches across all competitions, a result that keeps them among the early front-runners in the Betway Premiership.
It was a confident and composed performance from Manqoba Mngqithi’s side, who combined pace in attack with defensive stability.
The hosts made their intent clear early on and deservedly opened the scoring in the 15th minute through the in-form Sede Dion.
The Ivorian striker finished off a trademark Arrows counterattack, arriving at the near post to tuck away Siyanda Ndlovu’s cross — his seventh goal of the season, moving him to the top of the scoring charts.
Gallants tried to respond by controlling possession and building patiently from the back, but they struggled to penetrate Arrows’ organised defensive structure.
Goalkeeper Xolani Ngcobo marshalled his backline superbly and dealt comfortably with the few efforts that came his way.
After taking a narrow 1-0 lead into the break, Arrows doubled their advantage midway through the second half when another Ivorian made his mark.
Isaac Cisse showed superb timing and technique, arriving late into the box to meet Thokozani Khumalo’s layoff before curling a stunning strike into the top corner from outside the area.
Cisse’s goal showcased the attacking balance and confidence running through the side — a mix of youthful energy and tactical discipline.
Substitute Thokozani Khumalo then added further gloss to the scoreline with a clinical finish in the 86th minute, latching onto a loose ball in the box and firing home before adding another in stoppage time to complete the 4-0 rout.
Gallants offered brief flashes going forward but never truly troubled Ngcobo, who secured his third clean sheet in five matches.
Arrows, meanwhile, displayed growing maturity in their game management, absorbing pressure before punishing their opponents on the counter.
The result cements Arrows’ momentum as one of the league’s most consistent sides this season.
Having moved from Hammarsdale to Umlazi this season, Arrows are yet lose a league game at the King Zwelithini Stadium and have looked unstoppable in their new home.
With Dion leading the line, Cisse growing in confidence, and Ngcobo commanding from the back, the Umlazi-based outfit looks increasingly complete.
Mngqithi’s men will now turn their attention to a midweek showdown against Orlando Pirates on Wednesday, a clash that will further test their credentials against one of the league’s elite.
SCORES
Golden Arrows (1) 4
Dion 15’, Cisse 70’, Khumalo 86’ 92’
Marumo Gallants (0) 0
