The 100th edition of the Soweto derby did not disappoint. Against all odds, Kazier Chiefs put their poor form aside to take all three points against an in-form Pirates side.
In the build-up to the game, we detailed that Bucs were favorites going into the clash, given their form. However, we also mentioned that games like these blow form out of the water and that was the case at the end of the day.
A stunner from Samir Nurkovic proved to be the difference as Chiefs claimed a well-deserved 1-0 win over their rivals on Sunday afternoon.
Reeve Frosler, Daniel Cardoso, Samir Nurkovic and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo were all recalled to the Chiefs lineup. Elsewhere, Pirates made only one change, with Siphesihle Ndlovu getting the nod ahead of Fortune Makaringe.
Bernard Parker came close to giving Chiefs the lead but saw his effort go wide early on.
Pirates dominated the first half but were not as clinical as they usually are. However, the second half would go on to be a different story, one where Samir Nurkovic took center stage.
In the two games which Bucs won against Chiefs earlier in the season, Gavin Hunt’s side were without striker Samir Nurkovic due to injury.
Orlando Pirates assistant coach Fadlu Davids already warned that the Serbian could make the difference for Amakhosi. It turns out that prediction turned out just right.
Nurkovic opened the scoring for Chiefs nine minutes into the second half with a stunning overhead kick that left goalkeeper Mpontshane with no chance. It was only the second goal of the season for the 28-year-old.
Makaringe had a big chance to level matters in the 68th minute but his strike narrowly went wide off goal.
Nurkovic should have put the game beyond doubt in the final stages of the game after finding himself through on goal following a brilliant pass from Mashiane. However, he blew a glorious chance and sent his effort over the bar.
Pirates threw everything they had in search of an equalizer but Chiefs did just enough to hold on to their lead and claim a morale-boosting derby victory over Pirates.
For the Bucs, it was a double blow for them as they lost all bragging rights and also saw any title ambitions dented. They will aim to return to winning ways when they take on Maritzburg United next.
On the path of Chiefs, the win could be what they need as they would be looking to start a winning run when they take on Stellenbosch next.