Lamontville Golden Arrows made PSL history on Wednesday night after beating Stellenbosch FC 1-0 at King Zwelithini Stadium, becoming only the third team to keep a clean sheet in their opening five matches of a season.
Junior Dion once again proved to be the hero for Abafana Bes’thende. After making an impact against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 last weekend, Dion delivered again in the 70th minute to break a tense deadlock.
The goal came following an impactful double substitution, with Philani Khumalo providing the assist for Dion, who produced an excellent finish.
It was not an easy encounter for Arrows, with Stellenbosch starting strongly. Goalkeeper Stephens was called into action in the 14th minute, producing a brilliant save, while Raoul Danes fired just over the crossbar in the 24th minute.
The match became increasingly physical before halftime, with Stellenbosch defender Siviwe Nkwali receiving a yellow card in the 39th minute.
Stellenbosch attempted to change the momentum at the start of the second half with substitutions, bringing on Ashley Du Preez and Thabiso Lebitso. Arrows also made changes, introducing midfielder Nqubeko Dlamini.
The bookings continued as the battle intensified, with Themba Mantshiyane (61’), Luthando Vena (62’) and Ayabulela Maxwell (66’) all going into the referee’s book.
After Dion’s decisive goal, Stellenbosch pushed for a late equaliser and made further changes in the 76th minute, but Arrows stood firm to secure a memorable victory and another clean sheet.
The result leaves Golden Arrows in the top eight, while Stellenbosch remain in 11th place.
Arrows will now turn their attention to Sunday’s MTN8 second-leg clash against Mamelodi Sundowns. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, will face Durban City on September 1 in the Betway Premiership.