Chiefs, Arrows and others reflect on mixed fortunes

AS the dust settles on a dramatic Betway Premiership season, it's time to take stock of how each club fared — from those who soared against the odds to others who stumbled despite high hopes.

- Mihlali Baleka and Obakeng Meletse

reflect on the campaigns of clubs that finished from 12th to ninth, unpacking their highs, lows, key figures and what the future may hold.

12TH | GOLDEN ARROWS

A campaign of low expectations, late panic, and brief resurgence. Golden Arrows faced several early-season challenges, starting with Mabhuti Khenyeza stepping down, only to later resurface at Chippa United. Interim duo Kagisho Dikgacoi and Musa Bilankulu held things together reasonably, but hopes of a Top 8 finish faded quickly.

The return of coach Manqoba Mngqithi offered encouragement, yet the team still found themselves embroiled in a relegation scrap — one they narrowly escaped by a four-point margin after a nervy season finale.

The good and the bad: Their league double over Kaizer Chiefs was a rare highlight in a largely inconsistent season. Arrows' inability to string together strong performances has plagued them since their last top-eight finish in 2020/21.

The departure of Khenyeza was a disruptive blow the club could ill afford.

Star player: Shadrack Kobedi | Young Turk (U23 player): Sbonelo Cele | Player on the transfer radar: Nduduzo Sibiya

What's to come: The appointment of Mngqithi could still bring much-needed stability. He may just help unlock the consistency required for a return to the league's upper half.