The KwaZulu-Natal derby between Royal AM and Golden Arrows at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Tuesday night was electrifying, filled with tension and unexpected obstacles.
Yet, through the disappointment of a 3-2 defeat, Royal AM head coach John Maduka found reasons for pride in his team’s performance amid adversity.
The match began in unusual circumstances due to a two-hour delay following the late arrival of Arrows, who were caught in heavy traffic.
Maduka, who noted that his team had arrived on time and were kept waiting alongside the referees, expressed concern over the impact such delays can have on match readiness.
Scenes at the Harry gwala stadium
— Lamontville Golden Arrows FC (@goldenarrowsfc1) November 27, 2024
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What a performance! What a come back! #10betgoldenarrows #sthendeway #greenandgold pic.twitter.com/vCMEENjLF3
“It was very difficult because we came early and the opposition were not here,” Maduka reflected.
“Usually when games are delayed, it’s normally 30 minutes because of fans, but two hours is a long time.”
Despite the setbacks, Royal AM managed to maintain their focus, initially contending well against their rivals and grabbing the opening goal through Sibusiso Magaqa in the third minute.
However, the match shifted dramatically when striker Motebang Sera received a red card in the 71st minute, leaving Thwihli Thwahla a man down.
This pivotal moment allowed Arrows to rally, with Ryan Moon scoring the equaliser and then a penalty to put the visitors 2-1 up in the 74th minute.
Thabo Matlaba levelled matters with an 85th-minute penalty for Royal AM, but disaster struck soon after as an own goal by Zukile Mkhize handed all three points to coach Mabhuti Khenyeza’s Arrows.
“We kept the boys focused and it worked, although we didn't produce a good performance,” Maduka said, signalling the importance of resilience even in tough situations.
His emphasis on mental strength highlighted a fundamental aspect of his coaching philosophy: the ability to uplift morale even when circumstances are bleak.
As the dust settles on this hard-fought derby, it’s clear that Maduka’s leadership and unwavering support bolster his squad.
“While the performance may not have been up to par, the resilience displayed by my players deserves commendation,” he added, aspiring to build a strong foundation for future encounters.
The challenges facing Royal AM are compounded by their inability to sign new players at the start of the season.
With squad depth already a concern, Maduka now has to prepare his team for the daunting trip to Polokwane to face Kaizer Chiefs without Sera, a crucial player in the squad, at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday (5.45pm kick-off).
“Yes, it is a blow for us. He’s one of our key players. Losing him is a problem for us, but it’s also an opportunity for the other players to raise their hands and grab the opportunity,” lamented the 53-year-old coach as he looked to galvanise his troops for the upcoming clash.
Royal AM are now in 10th place after eight games, having won one, drew four and lost one.
Coming off their KZN derby defeat, Thwihli Thwahla will head to Limpopo in pursuit of their second victory of the season.
Currently winless on the road, the fixtures ahead are steep, with Maduka seeking to instil a renewed sense of purpose and determination as they gear up for the challenges that lie ahead.