Mamelodi Sundowns’ perfect home record in the Betway Premiership came to
an end on Saturday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient Orlando
Pirates side at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The match, which pitted two title contenders against each other, lived up to
its billing with end-to-end action. Sundowns controlled the early tempo, but
it was Pirates who created the more dangerous chances on the counter. The
deadlock was broken in the 20th minute by the league’s most prolific
marksman, Peter Shalulile, who pounced on a rebound after his initial effort
was blocked.
However, the home side’s lead was short-lived. Ten minutes before halftime,
Pirates’ young midfielder Camren Dansin, rewarded with a second consecutive
start by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, announced himself on the big stage. The
20-year-old unleashed a spectacular first-time volley from the edge of the
box that flew past a stranded Ronwen Williams, marking his first senior goal
for the Buccaneers.
Pirates grew in confidence after the equalizer and finished the first half
strongly. They carried that momentum into the second period, where they were
the more threatening side. Defender Thabo Seema missed a golden opportunity
to put the visitors ahead, firing straight at Williams from close range.
As the half progressed, Sundowns reintroduced themselves as an attacking
force, enjoying a larger share of possession. Despite this, both defenses
held firm, with clear-cut chances becoming a rarity and frustration mounting
for the home supporters.
The match ultimately ended all square, a result that sees Sundowns drop
points at home for the first time this season and leaves the Betway
Premiership title race wide open.
Lineups:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams; Mudau, Kekana, Cupido, Modiba; Aubaas,
Matthews; Allende, Santos, Sales; Shalulile.
Subs used: Adams.
Orlando Pirates: Chaine; Seema, Mbokazi, Lebitso, Hotto; Nduli, Nemtajela,
Dansin; Appollis, Moremi, Makgopa.
Subs used: Maswanganyi, Mbuthuma.
