Kamogelo Sebelebele shooting for a goal against Stellenbosch. Image: Orlando Pirates.
(The Post News)– Orlando Pirates won its first Betway Premiership Soccer League (PSL) game against Stellenboch FC at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday, August 20. Kamogelo Sebelebele had a flash of genius in the third round of the competition, scoring a spectacular goal at the fifteen-minute mark.
The combination of Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, and Relebohile Mofokeng played a beautiful ball that contributed to the early lead. Makgopa was the man to dish for the fast-paced Sebelebele to fire the short pass past Stellies’ backline and goalie, Sage Stephens.
In addition, Sebelebele switched from attacking the midfield position to right back after netting. This was followed by Dean Van Rooyen being injured at 20 minutes of the game. Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou subbed Van Rooyen with Sipho Mbule “Master Chef” to play in the middle.
Stellenbosch was pressed by the Buccaneers in the first half of the game. Sebelebele and Deon Hotto pushed Stellies back with pace and attack from the back sides. Moreover, the introduction of Mbule gave Pirates an advantage to control the middle of the pitch.
In the second half, changes to both teams saw a balance of the game that ended with no scores from the second half. Stellies’ introduction of Andre De Jong held Pirates’ attack and push to 50-50, as Stellies started to also attack.
Additionally, Stephens and Sipho Chaine were on their form, as they had blocked many promising tries to score. Stephens had a total of two brilliant saves, while Chaine had only one moment of an excellent save.
Pirates’ young star, Mofokeng, could not find the back of the net from his tries. With Hotto “Indian Chilli” missing beautiful chances to stretch the scoreline and seal the game beyond reach. Oswin Appolis hit a post as luck was not on his side.
Khomotjo Lekoloane also tried to shoot at Chaine from a shooting distance; however, Chaine saved it, resulting in a rebound. Unfortunately, it got to De Jong, who was offside, and he could not convert as the flag went up.
Ouaddou expressed joy over the results, noting that the club has been awaiting this moment. He said that his players controlled the game as they had desired to.
However, Steven Barker of Stellenbosch stated that he thinks Pirates started their game very well with diagonal ball. “Passing range was exploiting us; the idea was not to allow them in space. But somehow we could not,” said Barker, congratulating the Pirates.
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