Larsen wants to ‘eat’ Pirates in league tie

Arrows were sent packing out of the Nedbank Cup in a semi-final match against Pirates on Sunday afternoon at Princess Magogo Stadium.

In what will be the return match for both sides, Larsen hopes the results will swing in his club’s favour.

“It doesn’t affect our chances at all but it gives us motivation knowing that we can go into that game and eat this team,” said Larsen after the defeat in KwaMashu.

“We were very close at doing it today [Sunday] and we do believe that with a few adjustments and improvements, we can go on and win it.”

The Arrows coach believes his players will learn from the loss.

“I think maybe the nerves got to then in the first half. It was the first time playing in a semi-final, let alone in front of such a crowd,” said the former Manning Rangers wingback.

“It is expected at times, I’ve been a youngster, and I’ve played on this stage plenty of times. I’ve been a player and I know sometimes these situations can get to you as a youngster.

“I think it did get to some of them but I wouldn’t fault them for their effort. The mistakes they made are always honest mistakes and we’ll keep encouraging them, that’s all we can do.

“Like I’ve said before, this occasion is really going to make them grow as players and I’m sure next time out they’ll give a better account of themselves.”