By SABC Sport
12th January 2025
Amakhosi had hoped to build on their recent 2-1 win against Stellenbosch FC, but a resilient Arrows side denied them the chance to climb into fourth place on the league table. Chiefs remain in sixth position, with 18 points from 13 matches.
The match started fairly balanced, with both teams creating limited chances but playing cautiously. Chiefs had the better of the chances in the opening half, but Arrowsâ defence remained steadfast.
The first real threat came from Arrows' Angelo van Rooi, who had an early opportunity but fired wide after being set up by Keenan Phillips. Chiefs then began to look more dangerous, with Tebogo Potsane causing issues for the Arrows defence on the left wing.
Despite creating a couple of decent opportunities, Chiefs couldn't capitalise. The first came in the 34th minute when Inacio Miguel managed to beat the offside trap but opted to pass instead of shooting, and the Arrows defence cleared. Minutes later, Mduduzi Shambaba had a chance to break the deadlock but saw his shot go inches wide.
Just before halftime, Arrows almost found a breakthrough with a set-piece from Sbonelo Cele, but it sailed over the bar.
The game took a decisive turn early in the second half. In the 55th minute, Arrows managed to take the lead through Gladwin Shitolo, much to the delight of the away side. Chiefs responded strongly, and substitute Pule Mmodi nearly equalized in the 61st minute but was denied by the woodwork.
Despite creating several more chances, Chiefs could not find the back of the net. Arrows held on to their slim lead, with Chiefs failing to convert their opportunities.
The victory lifted Golden Arrows to fifth place on the league table, level on points with Chiefs but with a better goal difference. For Chiefs, the defeat was a missed opportunity to break into the top four as they remain in sixth.
The loss also highlights Chiefsâ continuing struggles with consistency, while Arrows will be pleased with their strong performance in Durban, leaving them with a sense of momentum going forward.