Golden Arrows edge Stellenbosch 1-0 amid refereeing controversy to reach Nedbank Cup quarter-finals

Lamontville Golden Arrows needed a slice of fortune – and a major refereeing controversy – to join fellow KwaZulu-Natal sides AmaZulu and Durban City in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over Stellenbosch FC at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday evening.

Angelo van Rooi netted the decisive goal in the second half to hand Manqoba Mngqithi’s side a hard-fought victory and a rare place in the last eight.

Stellies fashioned the better opportunities in the opening period, particularly from set-pieces, but failed to capitalise on their territorial dominance. In-form Arrows forward Junior Dion, who had struck 10 goals across league and cup competitions this season, was largely subdued and got little service inside the visitors’ box. Creative midfielder Siyanda Ndlovu also battled to find space against a well-drilled Stellenbosch defence.

Clear-cut chances were scarce at both ends, and neither goalkeeper was seriously tested before the break. On the touchline, visiting coach Gavin Hunt grew increasingly animated as his side’s promising approach play yielded no reward.

The contest turned on the hour mark in contentious fashion. Referee Michael Mosemeng waved play on despite what appeared to be a clear handball by Ayanda Jiyane inside the Arrows penalty area, his arm extended as he blocked a Stellenbosch cross. The decision sparked visible disbelief from the Cape side.

Moments later, the hosts made their opponents pay. Ndlovu, who had begun to assert greater influence, delivered a teasing cross in the 66th minute that Van Rooi converted to hand Arrows the lead.

Stellenbosch’s frustration deepened when Thabo Moloisane was shown a red card, leaving the visitors with a steep task in the closing stages. Mngqithi’s men managed the closing minutes with composure.