Nhlakanipho Mnqayi
Extra time was needed at the packed New Peter Mokaba Stadium as Orlando Pirates defeated Marumo Gallants by 1-0 to claim the Carling Knockout Cup title.
From the first whistle, it was Pirates who dominated the match as they had six shots on target to nothing from Gallants as the match went to halftime goalless.
The second half began and Pirates continued where they left off, but couldn’t break the wall of Bahlabane Ba Ntwa after 90 minutes.
In extra-time, Relebogile Mofokeng goal in the106th minute made the difference and delivered Pirates to the promise land.
The results meant the Sea Robbers claim their second title this season having won the MTN8 earlier this year.
Speaking to the media, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said it’s a wonderful day for the club and the players and the fans.
“We wanted to give them a gift for Christmas and I think it’s a good gift for them. I have to congratulate my boys because we knew that a cup match is tough and you need more resources mentally, and to play with heart.”
“We deserve to win because when we look at the match in the first half, we could have led 2-0. So, I think it’s a victory that is deserved for my players,” said Ouaddou.
