Mngqithi: Arrows exceeded expectations despite Carling KO heartbreak

GOLDEN Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi cut a reflective but proud figure after his side's Carling Knockout Cup semifinal defeat to Marumo Gallants, insisting his players have already exceeded expectations this season.

- SMISO MSOMI

Arrows were beaten on penalties at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday after a high scoring draw, bringing their impressive cup run to an end. But despite the heartbreak, Mngqithi said his players had gone further than even he imagined when the campaign began.

“The truth is, I can’t be too hard on these boys because when we started the season, if I had told them we'd play the semifinal of this cup, they would’ve thought we are dreaming,” he said.

“So, for them to be where they are is already very positive because I did not anticipate that they‘d be where they are now. I had targeted 15 games because that’s when I thought theyd have gelled, so I think they deserve credit for the strides they've made.”