*Caption: Lamontville Golden Arrows team coach Clinton Larson

Written by: Ndumiso Nxumalo

The Lamontville Golden Arrows’ head coach, Clinton Larsen is positive with the way that his side has started the preparation for the new 2016/2017 Absa Premiership season.

After Arrows loss of 3-1 to Amazulu on penalties in the uThungulu Mayoral Cup on Saturday at Umhlathuze Sports Complex, Larsen hopes that they will be able to have a great start.

Larsen said that it is very important to start on a very high note to the season as it boosts the team momentum as they are aiming for the top eight finish.

“Last season Arrows made the very good starts to the season under Serame Letsoaka, so I think all the 16 teams in the league want to do that, they don’t want to start slow and play catch up,” said Larsen.

In the 2015/2016 season, Arrows lost out in the top eight after finishing the season with 40 points equal to Supersports United but due to goal difference, they end up in the nine position.

Larsen also confirms the signing of the Mozambican international and former Orlando Pirates striker Helder Pelembe.

“He only came two days ago, he is not fit yet meaning his match fitness is way below everybody else. He is a quality player, I’ve worked with him before, he is a good professional and he will also give Sibeko and Lamola some competition in the striking force department,” added Larsen.

Golden Arrow also confirmed that they have finalised their squad for the 2016/2017 season with probably just one new signing announcement for the central meddlefielder that they will make before the end of the week.

Other new signings include Vuyani Ntanga and Lerato Lamola joins the side in a swap deal with Bloemfontein Celtic for Deon Hotto.

Abafana besthende first league game is away from home against the Soweto giants Orlando Pirate at Orlando Stadium, 24 August 2015, kick off 19H30.