Royal AM survived some nervo moments towards the end, but they managed to sweep the Golden Arrows aside and progress to the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup.
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The Durban derby turned into a real battle with both sides giving it their all.
However, it was Royal AM who prevailed with a 3-1 win that put them in the quarter-finals.
Royal AM had their first real chance 10 minutes in when Menzi Masuku was brought down outside the Arrows box. The referee awards a free kick.
Ruzaigh Gamildien took a set piece but went narrow with a curling attempt. Siyabonga Mbatha, however, also appeared to cover.
Royal AM were awarded a penalty in the 28th minute when Mbatha fouled Shauna Mogaila. He had his shot saved but headed the ball into the path of Mogaila.
Both players required medical attention after the collision and Mbatha was the worst off. However, he was able to continue after a few minutes.
However, he was unable to save Ricardo Nascimento’s shot as Royal AM took the lead. He sent Mbatha by mistake.
Mbatha had to be removed 10 minutes later because he could not continue. Nkosingiphile Gumede took his place.
Royal AM also made a forced substitution in the first half with Masuku suffering a hamstring problem. Levy Mashiane took his place.
Arrows came closest to getting an equalizer in the 54th minute when they were awarded a free kick just outside the Royal AM box. Xolani Ngcobo pulled off a brilliant save to deny Knox Mutizwa.
Great game from both Arrows and Royal AM
A penalty appeal by Arrows after Velemseni Ndwandwe went down in the box on deaf ears in the 71st minute.
Arrows pushed for an equalizer later on but still couldn’t find the right ball in the final third.
The introduction of Ndumiso Sibiya and Ryna Moon seemed to help a little but they could not bury the few chances they created.
In the first minute of added time, Mutizwa beat the Royal AM goalkeeper outside the box and ran into the goal.
He sliced a pass to the oncoming Ndwandwe, but the pass was too heavy and the latter was deflected.
Mutizwa finally got a pass in the last minute of the game, completing a good Arrows attacking move.
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But it all fell apart for the Arrows in extra time. Royal AM made an inspired substitution, bringing on Sedwyn George.
He made an almost immediate impact when he assisted Mashiane twice to give Royal AM a 3-1 win.