Golden Arrows co-coach Musa Bilankulu disclosed that his team was fully prepared for the challenges presented by Kaizer Chiefs, particularly their dependence on full-backs for offensive support.

Bilankulu pointed out that Chiefs players, including Mfundo Vilakazi, Mdu Shabalala, and Wandile Duba, typically prefer to cut inside instead of crossing the ball, which enhances the involvement of their full-backs.

Furthermore, Bilankulu predicted difficulties for Chiefs defenders Njabulo Blom and Bradley Cross (who was recently acquired from Arrows) in keeping pace with Arrows’ wingers, Siyanda Mthanti and Angelo van Rooi.

Arrows skillfully took advantage of these anticipated weaknesses, securing a 1-0 triumph over Chiefs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday. This victory marked Arrows’ first win at the 2010 FIFA World Cup venue against their Soweto rivals.

The pivotal goal was netted by Gladwin Shitolo, who capitalized on a rebound from Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma.

This win represented the first achievement for co-coaches Bilankulu and Kagiso Dikgacoi after taking over from Mabhuti Khenyeza last month.

“When they employed a four-at-the-back system, it allowed their full-backs to advance,” Bilankulu explained tactically after the match.

“Initially, they placed either Mfundo Vilakazi or Wandile Duba wide along with Shabalala, and those players are not prone to crossing the ball. This formation results in their full-backs pushing forward, consequently creating opportunities for our wingers during transitions from defense to attack.

“This formation indicated that Bradley Cross would likely have difficulty one-on-one against Siyanda Mthanti, while Njabulo Blom would face challenges managing Angelo van Rooi.

“Even after shifting to three at the back, they still left gaps in their formation. We were aware that they might overwhelm us in the first half; nevertheless, we were ready to leverage counter-attacks and exploit their vulnerabilities.

“Through applying pressure, we forced them to reassess their strategy, as teams must adjust to their opponents despite their established systems. Yet, we maintained our playing style, compelling them to adapt.

“We predicted their plan to overcrowd the midfield, with players like Shabalala and Vilakazi making short runs, yet they were unwittingly inviting us into spaces behind their lines.

“We recognized that sustaining a high press could risk exposing us to counter-attacks, necessitating a high defensive line. If they breached our press, we had to be ready to cover the ensuing gaps. I was confident that Cross wouldn’t be able to manage Mthanti, and likewise, Blom would struggle against van Rooi.

“We pinpointed these weaknesses, particularly their midfield congestion, which made them vulnerable.”

In reaction to Arrows’ tactical execution, Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi made substitutions during halftime. Njabulo Blom was substituted for Reeve Frosler, and Ranga Chivaviro replaced Tebogo Potsane (who was stationed on the left) in an attempt to refine their strategy. However, these adjustments did not produce the desired effect.

The victory elevated Arrows to fifth place in the Betway Premiership standings, amassing 18 points from 12 matches. Notably, Arrows had obtained 20 points by this point last season before entering a six-match losing streak.