I was humbled last year - Mngqithi wary of history repeating itself after KO progress

GOLDEN Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi is preaching caution and humility despite his side's impressive run to the Carling Knockout Cup semifinals, drawing lessons from his own painful experiences in the competition.

- SMISO MSOMI

Abafana Bes'Thende showed resilience on Sunday, coming from behind to beat TS Galaxy 2-1 after extra-time at the King Zwelithini Stadium. The win saw them join Richards Bay in the last four, putting Arrows within touching distance of a first cup final since 2009 when Mngqithi himself guided them to their only major title, the MTN8.

But while the Durban side's supporters are beginning to dream ot championships, their coach remains firmly grounded. Mngqithi, now the most decorated coach left in the tournament, is acutely aware of how quickly fortunes can change in knockout football.

"I don’t want to get drawn into any perception because I was humbled last season," Mngqithi said after the match.