Lafitte reveals key takeaways after Gallants’ 4-0 thrashing of Stellenbosch

Marumo Gallants’ head coach, Alexandre Lafitte, hailed his team’s defensive solidity as the key takeaway from their emphatic 4-0 thrashing of Stellenbosch in the Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinal on Wednesday.

The impressive victory, achieved on a rainy night at the Dr Molemela Stadium, not only secured Bahlabane Ba Ntwa a coveted spot in the semifinals but also saw them dismantle one of the tournament’s pre-match favourites.

The result was sealed thanks to a brace from former Orlando Pirates midfielder Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, who put in a masterful performance to earn the R100,000 Man of the Match prize. Goals from Monde Mphambaniso and Jaison Clifford rounded out the comprehensive scoreline.

However, the 28-year-old Lafitte, the youngest head coach in the division, reserved his highest praise for the team’s shutout.

“I am so happy because it’s not easy to qualify for the semifinals of any cup competition. More than anything, it’s the fact that we didn’t concede a goal that makes me happy. It also pleases me that we managed to score four goals,” Lafitte stated after the match.

Semifinal Secured And Upcoming Fixtures For Lafitte And Gallants

The victory sets up an intriguing semifinal clash with Golden Arrows (Abafana Bes’thende), which will be played away on the weekend of November 8th and 9th, with the exact date still to be confirmed.

Lafitte stressed the importance of the result and credited his squad for their discipline, adding: “My boys did a very good job… this is a very important result for us. The game plan was executed very well tonight; hence, I give my players credit.”

Coincidence Corner

The cup tie will serve as an immediate rematch, as Marumo Gallants and Golden Arrows are coincidentally set to meet in a league fixture this Sunday at King Zwelithini Stadium, providing a high-stakes prelude to their crucial Carling Knockout semifinal showdown the following weekend.

Would you like me to write a short piece previewing the upcoming league match between Gallants and Golden Arrows