Orlando Pirates made the trip to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, as they drew swords with Supersport United.
The hosts came into this match on the back of two consecutive wins, and were looking to extend their winning run to three matches. On the other hand, Orlando Pirates had won three in a row, with no losses in six games.
Comeback win for Supersport United
Being the home side, Supersport United were the slight favourites to win on Saturday. However, it didn't take too long for them to fall behind, as Fortune Makaringe opened the scoring for the visitors just before the five minute mark.
At this point, a victory would've propelled the Pirates to second place ahead of their opponents. However, both teams were back on level terms 30 minutes later, as Shandre Campbell's goal ensured both teams were tied at half-time.
☠️ HT | @SuperSportFC 1 – 1 @orlandopirates
🥅 5' Makaringe
⚫⚪🔴⭐#Matchday #DStvPrem#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/TiLxjO1aH8
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) December 23, 2023
Interestingly, Orlando Pirates controlled more of the ball in the second half (70% possession). However, it was Supersport United who took the lead 11 minutes into the half, as Campbell assisted Bradley Grobler for the hosts' second goal.
The 18 year-old doubled Supersport United's lead just before the 75 minute mark, sealing all three points for his team. It may interest you to know that Campbell was just promoted from the reserves a few months ago; and up until today, he had not scored a goal for Supersport United. However, the teenager put up a man-of-the-match performance on Saturday, bagging two goals and an assist.
☠️ FT || @SuperSportFC 3 – 1 @orlandopirates
🥅 5' Makaringe
⚫⚪🔴⭐#Matchday #DStvPrem#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/4zq1y6X4ss
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) December 23, 2023
In total, Supersport United registered 11 shots. Five of those were on target, while the other six went off target. In contrast, just one of Orlando Pirates' nine shots went on target; two of those were blocked, while six went off target. The Pirates had 62 percent of the ball, while Supersport had 38 percent.
What this result means for Orlando Pirates
With their victory on Saturday, Supersport United consolidated their second-placed spot. They are now four points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, and at least four points ahead of every other team in the Premier Soccer League. On the other hand, Orlando Pirates are currently third on the PSL table.
This article was most recently revised and updated 12 months ago
