Dladla praises Arrows’ technical team as defensive resolve shines

Makhanya moved to Abafana Bes’thende from Gomora United earlier in the season, with the former Motsepe Foundation Championship coach now part of Dladla’s technical team. 

Dladla was speaking after Arrows produced a disciplined defensive display to beat Mamelodi Sundowns one-nil in the MTN8 semi-final first leg at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday. 

Dladla says his new assistant offers qualities that go beyond tactics, providing leadership and support to the players both on and off the pitch.

"We know the character of Ashley Makhanya. He was a hardworking player, and I can tell you that as a coach he is also like that. He is very committed to the team, very knowledgable and he demands a lot from the players. We don't have big players at Arrows, but we guide them and he definitely plays a father figure role."

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Abafana Bes’thende have started the 2026/27 campaign with an impressive defensive record, keeping five consecutive clean sheets across their opening matches in all competitions. That run includes their MTN8 victories over Kaizer Chiefs and Sundowns, as well as three goalless Betway Premiership draws.

Dladla has also highlighted goalkeeper coach Jacob Mokhasi as an important part of the defensive structure. Mokhasi joined Arrows from Marumo Gallants ahead of the new campaign, bringing previous coaching experience at Gallants and SuperSport United, as well as a playing career that included a stint with Orlando Pirates and other clubs. 

Dladla believes the team’s defensive resilience is also a reflection of the commitment shown by his players throughout matches and training. He says the emphasis has been on creating a squad where every player remains prepared to contribute, regardless of whether they start or come off the bench.

"The kind of players we have are very committed to the project. We are playing against Sundowns in three consecutive weekends, so we have to take that into consideration, but we are a family and we'll carry on working hard for each other."

Arrows now face a demanding stretch of fixtures, beginning with Wednesday night’s Betway Premiership clash against Stellenbosch FC. 

They will then return to MTN8 action against Sundowns in the second leg on Sunday, before meeting the Brazilians again in the league the following week.