Kaizer Chiefs defeated arch-rivals Orlando Pirates 1-0 in the Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday at the FNB Stadium, writes MARSHALL GOUTS.
Bernard Parker’s first-half strike proved to be the difference between the two sides. The Soweto giants both donned their new home kits in the seventh edition of the pre-season spectacle.
The encounter got off to a slow start as neither side committed too many numbers going forward.
Tendai Ndoro was presented with the first chance of the game in the fourth minute when he did well to get behind the Chiefs defence, but the presence of Lorenzo Gordinho was enough to clear the danger.
Gordinho almost broke the deadlock a minute later, when he latched on to George Maluleka’s ball into the area, but the defender’s header crashed against the crossbar.
Thamsanqa Gabuza should have done better with his effort after being put through on goal, but the Bafana Bafana man hit his toe-poked effort straight at Itumeleng Khune.
Chiefs deservedly opened the scoring when Bernard Parker turned home Gustavo Paez’ low ball into the area.
Steve Komphela’s side showed no signs of slowing down their high-tempo attacking game, while the Buccaneers appeared short on confidence as they struggled to get into their rhythm.
The remainder of the first half continued with Chiefs’ dominance, while Pirates barely managed a sniff at goal.
Pirates emerged with more of an attacking intent in the second half and looked better organised in their bid to to draw level.
The first two substitutions of the game were made in the 54th minute as Ryan Moon and Thamsanqa Sangweni were introduced for Molangoane and Sarr respectively.
Pirates made a host of changes, introducing Musa Nyatama, Thabiso Kutumela and Abbubaker Mobarsa, and although the substitutions helped them stabilise their midfield, it did not help yield a goal, as Chiefs were in full control of the game.
William Twala replaced goal-scorer Bernard Parker in the 73rd minute, while the Pirates coach went for broke as he brought on forward Aynda Nkosi for Makola.
Gordinho should have all but sealed the tie in the 74th minute when he got on to the end of Ekstein’s lofted ball into the area, but the defender opted to pass instead of shoot, when the latter would have been a better option.
Pirates had the best chance of the game a minute later when Morrison’s stinging effort was kept out by Khune, with Gcaba’s rebounded effort going against the crossbar.
Chiefs held on to their one-goal lead to defend their Carling Black Label title.
Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix
