On Tuesday, DStv Premiership side Golden Arrows confirmed the signing defender Sicelokuhle Hlatshwayo as reported by FARPost a month ago.
Hlatshwayo joins the KwaZulu-Natal outfit on a free transfer after Marumo Gallants terminated his contract in September.
Four weeks ago, this publication announced that Arrows had won the race, beating their KZN rivals AmaZulu and Richards Bay to the defender’s signature.
FARPost writer Otis Ntshangase looks at what the defender would most likely bring to the Arrows’ defence when the season resumes end of December.
EXPERIENCE
Hlatshwayo is a great signing for Arrows. He comes in with a lot experience. The 28-year-old played a huge part last season helping Gallants reach the Nedbank Cup final, where they lost to Mamelodi Sundowns. He also featured in the CAF Confederation Cup.
STABILITY
The team’s defence has been shaky and inconsistent since the beginning of the season.
In 13 matches played so far, Abafana Bes’thende have the third worst defence in the league as they have conceded 15 goals with four draws and five defeats.
Therefore, Hlatshwayo’s aim will be to bring and restore stability in the backline of the team
The inconsistent at the back led midfielder Thabani Zuke to be deployed at centre back in many matches in an effort to bring stability at the back.
LEADERSHIP
Arrows’ defense seem to be lacking a leader who will be in command of the backline and provide good communication. Hlatshwayo has leadership qualities as he showed whilst at the Polokwane outfit, calling the shots at the back with his skipper Lehlohonolo Nonyane.
Hlatshwayo’s last game in Gallants colours was back on September 17th against Chippa United, where they suffered a one-nil defeat.
Hlatshwayo parting ways with Gallants came as a huge surprise and blow for the team in the 2022/23 campaign.
Hlatshwayo made seven league appearances for the club, putting in decent performances as he walked away with two Man of the Match awards.
However after the arrival of Dan Malesela, the defender spent more time on the bench, which suggests that he fell out of favour with the returning mentor.
Hlatshwayo also had stints at Free State Stars, Polokwane City and Jomo Cosmos before moving to Gallants
RELATED STORY: Arrows coach Vilakazi sends message to nysayers
