League’s top scorer, Thando Ngwenya, found the net to secure AmaZulu’s sixth consecutive victory on Saturday, clinching a 1-0 win in the Durban Derby against Golden Arrows at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu.

This win solidified Usuthu’s third position in the Betway Premiership, accumulating 22 points from nine matches. They are three points behind second-placed Orlando Pirates and four points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, with Sundowns having played one more match.

AmaZulu’s impressive form is a contrast to an uncertain off-season for Zwane, who drew interest from Kaizer Chiefs, Sekhukhune United, and Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane.

When questioned if Usuthu’s performance justified his decision to remain with the team, Zwane remarked how the painful defensive mistakes from last season have contributed to their current growth.

“Last season, we suffered because of our own mistakes,” Zwane admitted.

“In the previous encounter against Golden Arrows, we had the match in hand but conceded an equalizer in the last 20 seconds. We squandered numerous opportunities in matches like against Magesi, where a tap-in went over the bar during stoppage time.

“In our game against Polokwane City, we dominated, yet they scored following a corner when our goalkeeper mishandled the ball and collided with Sandile Mthethwa, leading to an equalizer.

“We faced similar situations against Kaizer Chiefs, allowing them to come back, and Sekhukhune equalized in the dying moments both home and away.

“That accounted for 15 points lost. Compared to last season, we’ve learned to maintain our leads and minimize mistakes. When we score, it becomes challenging for opponents.

“This improvement is due to better chemistry and tactical awareness. We still make errors, but they are not as costly as before.

“Had we been ready earlier, we could have already qualified for Africa. Perhaps it was divine timing that we weren’t prepared yet. Coming from sixth place and revitalizing the team has enhanced our chemistry, self-belief, and confidence.”

Despite their great form, Zwane reiterated that qualifying for continental competitions is the club’s main goal.

“Currently, we prefer to focus on one game at a time instead of discussing league titles,” he stated.

“Our mandate is to participate in African football next season, as we are progressively challenging ourselves at that level for the growth of these players and the club’s value.”