Staunch diski lovers could not have asked for a better start and return of Premier Soccer League football, as the MTN8 quarterfinal opener between Orlando Pirates and Polokwane City yesterday afternoon lived up to expectations.
The Buccaneers had a perfect start to their Wafa Wafa title defence, outclassing Rise and Shine with a comfortable 2-0 win to book their spot in the semi-finals of the competition.
What a way for Oswin Appollis to announce himself in the field of play in a Bucs shirt, when he scored the opening goal and won them a penalty, which Patrick Maswanganyi converted.
Orlando Stadium, better known as Es’godini sika maminzela, was packed to the brim after the game was a sold-out affair. The scenes witnessed in and outside Orlando showcased the immense excitement and hunger fans had for the return of football.
Even Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns supporters did not want to miss out on the experience, as they came out in their numbers as well to enjoy a good atmosphere and spectacle at the stadium.
Despite the questionable condition of the pitch, it was a wholesome return of much-anticipated PSL football, as Orlando was buzzing once again.
The home side also displayed a decent performance and showed glimpses of what their fans can look forward to from coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s new brand of football this season.
Some of the Pirates’ new signings, such as Sipho Mbule, Sihle Nduli, Tshepang Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma, also showed their quality and were in the thick of things.
Ouaddou’s side dominated play from the onset and put the game to bed in the first half with a goal each from Appollis and Maswanganyi.
Polokwane City chased shadows most of the first half, but came out looking like a much better side after the break, as they created a couple of goal-scoring chances. However, their efforts were not enough to be rewarded as they suffered a 2-0 defeat.
The Buccaneers will now wait for the final MTN8 quarterfinal matches between Stellenbosch FC and AmaZulu, and the Sundowns versus Richards Bay tonight, to know who they will be pitted against in the semis.
The Betway Premiership will also be kicking off this coming weekend with Pirates set to open their league account against Sekhukhune United at Orlando.
Polokwane City will be at home at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium against Magesi FC in the Limpopo derby.
