5 key moments in the clash between Mpumalanga Black Aces and Orlando Pirates
Mpumalanga Black Aces achieved a sensational victory in front of their home fans when they beat Orlando Pirates 2-1 at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday, October 21, 2014.
- Penalties decide the outcome of the match
In most cases penalties awarded at a crucial time in the match always seem to be dubious. In this instance penalties were correctly awarded for both Mpumalanga Black Aces and Orlando Pirates. Pirates equiliser also produced a more energetic and frenetic second half which only enhanced the spectacular football on display.
- Collins Mbesuma’s early goal set the trend
The Zambian striker finally broke his goal scoring drought with a well placed header that had Orlando Pirates’ shot-stopper Senzo Meyiwa grasping at thin air. Aces’ will hope that this will be the start of a goal scoring spree for the rest of the ABSA Premiership season.
- Oupa Manyisa’s hand ball
Oupa Manyisa will be ruing a simple mistake that lead to Aces getting the win on Tuesday evening. An innocuous long ball into the area looked to cause little trouble until Manyisa missed with his header and accidentally played the ball with his arm.
- Kermit Erasmus hitting the post in the first half
Orlando Pirates held their fair share of possession in the first 10 minutes of the match and could have taken an early lead if Kermit Erasmus’ cannonball strke had not struck the left hand upright.
- Jackson Mabokgwane’s heroics
Aces’ goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane deserved to take man of the match honours after showing smart judgment and countless saves to deny the sea robbers. Orlando Pirates threw everything they had but Mabokgwane foiled their attempts and left them with zero points from their trip to Mbombela.
