Golden Arrows coach Clinton Larsen says his side showed a real fighting spirit during their 2-1 victory over Bloemfontein Celtic on Saturday.

Nkanyiso Cele opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Mpho Maruping levelled matters three minutes later, but Knox Mutizwa’s 65th-minute goal proved to be the difference as Arrows walked away with all three points.

The 45-year-old coach believes his side responded well to their defeat against SuperSport United recently with this victory over Celtic.

‘A good response was needed after our defeat to Supersport and that’s exactly what we got from our players,’ Larsen told the Golden Arrows website.

‘We started brightly and created numerous chances, but failed to take any. It was disappointing to go into the break at 0-0.’

‘We deservedly took the lead early in the 2nd half through a Cele penalty after Mahachi was brought down, but conceded shortly thereafter. Msowoya received an innocuous 2nd yellow and we had to see out most of the 2nd half a man short.

Larsen says his side showed fighting spirit during the match and he says that their effort paid off after Mutizwa sealed his side’s victory with 25 minutes still left to play.

‘We still managed to create chances and were rewarded when Mutizwa brilliantly headed home a pinpoint Mthiyane cross after good work by Lamola,’ he added.

‘The fighting spirit shown by the players to defend our lead was nothing short of exemplary.’

Golden Arrows will take on Free State Stars next in the Absa Premiership on Saturday.

The match at the Chatsworth Stadium kicks off at 15:30.