Lamontville Golden Arrows FC stunned in pre-season opener against Milford FC
Lamontville Golden Arrows FC began their pre-season campaign with a 0-1 defeat to Milford FC on 26 July 2026. The match, played in Durban, exposed gaps in the Golden Arrows’ preparation for the Betway Premiership.
What went wrong for the Golden Arrows?
Milford FC took the lead in the 67th minute through Teboho Mokoena’s strike. The Golden Arrows struggled to respond, with their attack looking disjointed. Sibusiso Vilakazi and Siyanda Xulu failed to link up, while the midfield was repeatedly outmuscled.
And the fans made their displeasure known. Chants for changes echoed around the ground as the players lacked rhythm. The defeat signals a shaky start to pre-season, with the Betway Premiership season just weeks away.
Why this result stings for the Golden Arrows
Pre-season friendlies are supposed to mirror the intensity of PSL matches. But this loss suggests the Golden Arrows are not yet ready. The defensive frailties and poor attacking transitions were glaring.
Coach Mduduzi Shabalala must act fast. The midfield, usually led by Vilakazi, looked exposed. The forwards failed to press high, allowing Milford to control the game. The team needs to tighten up before the league campaign begins.
What’s next for Lamontville Golden Arrows FC?
The Golden Arrows will face another pre-season opponent in the coming days. Shabalala has urged patience, but the clock is ticking. The Betway Premiership season starts in August, and the team cannot afford more sluggish displays.
Fans are already debating whether the friendly was a real test. Milford FC, from a lower division, may not have stretched the Golden Arrows enough. The true test comes when the PSL campaign begins.
