Arendse still the man for the People’s Team

HE may be 35 years old, but veteran Tyren Arendse is still going strong and he’s still the inspiration that drives Santos.

The experienced Arendse, who has also played for Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, had a hand in both goals as Santos defeated Mbombela United 2-1 at Parow Park on the opening weekend of football in the NFD.

The People’s Team were the only Cape side to win. Of the others, FC Cape Town drew 1-1 with Jomo Cosmos, Milano United lost 2-1 at home to Witbank Spurs, Stellenbosch FC went down 3-1 to Mthatha Bucks in East London and Cape Town All Stars were edged 2-1 by the University of Pretoria.

Santos, relegated from the PSL in 2012, are hopeful that this is the season in which they can mount a charge for promotion.

“We definitely have a lot more quality this season,” said Arendse. “Also, with the coach (Zeca Marques) staying on it’s another plus for us. So hopefully we can do something this season.”

Arendse is also pleased with the addition of another experienced man in Ashley Hartog. Last season, with Arendse probably the only seasoned campaigner among a host of youngsters, Santos struggled – so much so that he was even playing in central defence.

In addition to Hartog, who has played for SuperSport United and Maritzburg United, Santos have also signed former Polokwane City goalkeeper Dino Visser and a quartet of foreigners – Gambians Emil Sambo and Alhagie Bah, and Ghanaians Abdul Yusif and Biney Koomson. Also on board is former Ajax Cape Town youngster Quien Paulse, who got the second goal against Mbombela at the weekend.

“I’m back playing in midfield,” said Arendse. “The squad is more balanced and, with Ashley (Hartog) alongside in midfield, I have a lot more support and experience during tight situations.”