Mamelodi Sundowns humbled the high-flying Orlando Pirates with a 4-1 drubbing in an enthralling Castle Premier Soccer League match played at the Johannesburg Stadium on Saturday.
There was no score at half-time.
Downs came into the match as clear underdogs in this much-talked-about encounter but they were able to soak up all the first-half pressure exerted by Pirates from the start.
The Chloorkop-based side had their chances, though, and they were unlucky when in the fourth minute, Vuyo Mere cleared a goal-bound header from Phumudzo Manenzhe with goalkeeper Brian Baloyi well beaten.
In the 18th minute, Lebohang Mokoena’s attempt shaved the crossbar.
Pirates mounted their attack with Benedict Vilakazi, Mokoena and Joseph Mkhanya spearheading those moves, but towering Downs defender Neil Winstanley doused any threats on the Sundowns goal.
Siaka Tiene, who enjoyed a free role, caused havoc in the Pirates’ backyard and his goal, nine minutes into the second half, came as little surprise.
Pirates, playing in front of about 20 000 stunned fans, then missed two clear-cut chances of scoring.
Downs coach Angel Capa introduced Surprise Moriri for Peter Ndlovu in the 78th minute and the striker made an immediate impact, heading home the second goal in the 83rd minute.
Moriri again surprised Pirates when he rattled the net six minutes later.
Midfielder Godfrey Sapula, who masterminded the engine room for Sundowns, crowned his sterling performance by scoring the fourth goal in the 90th minute.
Sundowns move to second spot with 45 points from 25 games, while the humiliated Pirates still top the table with 49 points from 24 matches. — Sapa