Manqoba Mngqithi cautions Lamontville Golden Arrows players against smoking hype pipe

LAMONTVILLE Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi has warned his players against complacency as the KwaZulu-Natal outfit prepares to battle unpredictability in the form of Marumo Gallants in the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup. 

On Sunday, Abafana Besthende will welcome Bahlabane Ba Ntwa to the King Zwelithini Stadium in a 3pm kick-off, hoping to turn off-field uplift into onfield success against a side they faced seven days ago. 

Arrows thumped their Bloemfontein-based side in a league encounter in Umlazi and will now look to recreate that night in search of a place in the final. 

The win not only strengthened their top-eight position at the time but also drew significant buzz on social media — a wave of attention that Mngqithi acknowledges but treats with measured caution.

“It’s a good thing what is happening with the club to catch the interest of people on the social media space,” Mngqithi said.

“I can hear, feel and see the attention.”

The Arrows mentor admitted that while he appreciates the growing fan engagement, it also presents potential pitfalls for players still learning to handle the spotlight responsibly.

“But also comes a negative pitch with that space,” he continued.

“I always try to focus on what I can control because whoever is in that space, I think, will control it.”

Arrows have emerged as one of the most entertaining teams in the league this season, combining youthful energy with sharp attacking football.

Yet Mngqithi believes success must be met with humility and discipline, particularly as his side prepares to face the same opponent twice in quick succession — a situation that often demands both tactical adjustments and psychological focus.

“I always try to advise players that social media might cause problems,” he explained.

“For example, when players try to talk about the final when they have not played the semi-final — because it means you’re getting ahead of yourself and will be disappointed if you don’t get there.”

Having guided his side to five wins in their last seven outings, the coach is aware that confidence can quickly turn into overconfidence if not managed properly.

“The worst part is that the little successes we’ve had, we have to clamp down on any big heads that may be beginning to emerge,” said Mngqithi.

“When you begin to feel like you can stroll through games, then it’s a problem.”

With Gallants determined to respond after last weekend’s defeat, Mngqithi insists the mental preparation for this week’s encounter is just as vital as the tactical one.

“For me, the game against Marumo requires more preparation of the mind and tactics,” he concluded.

“Because if they’re anxious, then they’re likely to make mistakes — and that’s something we must be ready to exploit.”

Mngqithi also hinted that squad rotation could play a part, given the quick turnaround between fixtures, noting that maintaining energy levels and focus will be essential if Arrows are to extend their winning momentum and remain genuine contenders in both league and cup competitions.