ANC and IFP supporters yesterday forgot about their political differences and stood side by side in jubilation when they welcomed MTN8 winners Lamontville Golden Arrows at Durban International Airport.

All were thrilled by Arrows' outstanding display in the final against Cape Town's Ajax two weeks ago. Abafana Bes'thende became the first Durban team to lift the prestigious trophy.

Arrows supporter and ANC member S'duduzo Sikhakhane said: "The feeling is great. Sport is a unifier and today proves just that.

"Though I am wearing an ANC T-shirt and carrying an ANC flag it is irrelevant today since I am a proud South African and a proud resident of KwaZulu-Natal.

"I hope our leaders realise the impact of sport on people. Today we celebrate Arrows' victory, irrespective of our political affiliation. We are all here to welcome our heroes."

His sentiments were echoed by IFP member Mbali Ngcobo.

"When we heard Arrows would be arriving today, we decided to come and welcome the team.

"They have particularly done Lamontville proud .

"The people of KwaZulu-Natal are proud because for far too long trophies have been eluding us. Arrows have made us very proud..

"I wish our leaders would take a leaf from today's proceedings and work towards building a united province that puts all its people above politics."