MDC Bucs Open 2020 With A Win

11 January, 2020

Orlando Pirates Reserves claimed another vital three points at Rand Stadium by beating Mamelodi Sundowns in the Multichoice Diski Challenge (MDC) on Saturday afternoon.

The Buccaneers went into their first fixture of the year ranked as underdogs, as they went up against a rampant side that had worked its way up to a healthy lead at the top of the standings.

It was through a freak goal from Mazibuko that the hosts found the lead, after what looked to be a cross made its way into the back of the net.

Keeping the MDC Bucs in the lead was goalkeeper Kopano Thuntsane, who came off his line a few times to deny the Brazilians from drawing level.

The hosts made a few surges of their own into the opposition half, but without the necessary impact they needed to double the lead.

The two sides went into the tunnel with Pirates enjoying a slim lead over the current log leaders.

Thuntsane’s heroics were not only confined to the first half, as he proved decisive once more when Sundowns were given a penalty early into the second 45.

The shot-stopper looked to be beaten by Allen’s spot-kick, but had the presence of mind to stick out a leg which affected the save that kept his side in the lead.

Having gotten a respite, it was up to the Pirates defence to maintain their lead, but their attack was not keen on leaving things be as they made a few more voyages into the Sundowns half.

Eventually, the MDC Bucs would emerge victorious with a 1-0 win over the form team in the competition.

Starting XI: Thuntsane (GK), Tshobeni, Ramonyai, Sesane, Mazibuko, Mbangwa, Sepeng (Madisha 80'), SA Bophela, SW Bophela (Buda 90'), Luthuli (Mahlong 76'), Mofokeng