SuperSport United not only knocked Kaizer Chiefs off course in their race for the Castle Premiership title but also embarassed the league favourites by beating them 3-0 at Loftus Stadium on Wednesday night.
All the goals were scored in the first half. Daniel Matsau, Tsweu Mokoro and Dennis Masina did the damage control in the 15th, 21st and 37th minutes respectively.
United, who were the hosts of the well-attended match, moved to the second spot on the log. They have now amassed 50 points from 28 matches, while log-leaders Chiefs suffered their third defeat in 26 games.
Chiefs, who were stunned in front of thousands of their fans, have 55 points. Ajax Cape Town, who have a home game against Sundowns on Friday night, have fallen behind United on goal difference.
Chiefs were outgunned throughout the 90 minutes. Their goalkeeper, Rowen Fernandez, and defenders Derrick Spencer and David Kannemeyer should hang their heads in shame. They were just not up to it. United were not only composed but also gave their best display against a club which has failed to beat them in the 2003/04 season.
The Pretoria-based side’s best weapon was sheer determination and concentration.
Chiefs even failed to take advantage of their numerical superiority against a 10-men United.
Nicholas Chazika was red-carded by referee Buyile Gqubule for an infringement in the 70th minute but that meant nothing to United, who continued with their impressive display.
Matsau, the former Chiefs striker, opened the flood gates with a soft goal when he finished off a rebound from Sibusiso Mahlangu’s attempt.
Mokoro, who forced Fernandez to parry for a corner in the first minute, crowned his outstanding display when he kicked left-footed into the net.
Masina, who partnered Matsau in the front, silenced the Chiefs fans with a 25-metre scorcher that rattled the net. Bottled by Spencer and Patrick Mabedi, the Swaziland international turned swiftly before rifling a blistering shot, beating Fernandez hands down.
United, who warned Chiefs not to expect favours during the week, thrilled soccer enthusiasts throughout the first half.
In fact, it could have been 4-0 had referee Buyile Gqubule awarded a penalty when Masina was brought down inside the area by Spencer in the 34th minute.
Gqubule ruled that the match should go on, much to the disappointment of Mosimane. Chiefs came close but John Mosheou was denied by the near post when United’s Calvin Marlin was left stranded in the 38th minute.
The match began 45 minutes late as league officials allowed the multitide of fans to settle into the stadium before the start. – Sapa