The beginning of wisdom is the fear of Orlando Pirates

In the annals of South African football history, there are certain matches that stand out as legendary displays of dominance and skill.

 

One such momentous occasion occurred in 1973 on the 17^th March when Kaizer Chiefs delivered a devastating 10-1 defeat to African Wanderers at Orlando Stadium.

 

Led by the formidable late Pule “Ace” Ntsoelengoe, who netted five goals, and supported by the prolific Johannes “Big Boy” Kholoane with four goals, and Jerry Sadike scoring the 10th, Chiefs left an indelible mark with their record-setting victory.

 

When South African football transitioned to professionalism back in 1996, Kaizer Chiefs also handed eventual champions Manning Rangers a 9-1 pasting and during 2001, SuperSport also annihilated Zulu Royals 8-1 also in a league match.

 

Now, a century later, at the very same venue where Chiefs had orchestrated their massacre of Wanderers, Orlando Pirates came within striking distance of replicating that historic feat.

 

Their opponents, Marumo Gallants, found themselves at the receiving end of a relentless offensive onslaught by the Buccaneers on Tuesday afternoon on the eve of Christmas.

 

The stage was set for a memorable clash, as the rain poured down relentlessly on the stadium, setting the scene for a dramatic and action-packed encounter.

 

As the match kicked off, it was clear that Orlando Pirates were in no mood to show mercy or any Xmas cheer. The players were determined to not only secure a victory but to make a statement with their performance.

 

Pirates were in the lead as early as the fourth minute when Kenny Nthatheni steered a Deon Hotto cross into his own net, and the writing was on the wall.

 

The game was halted for almost 40-minutes due to the rain which came pouring down in buckets. And once the referee signaled the resumption of hostilities, Gallants drew level through Gaba Mhango.

 

Tshegofatso Mabasa set the tone early in the second half, finding the back of the net and signaling the start of what would become a goal-scoring spree for the Pirates.

 

Relebohile Mofokeng, Mabasa, and Boitumelo Radiopane joined Thalente Mbatha in wreaking havoc on the Gallants defense, leaving their opponents scrambling to contain the relentless attacking waves from Pirates.

 

The rain that falling from the cloudy sky seemed to mirror the goals that poured in for the home team, as they raced towards a potentially record-breaking score line.

 

Despite their valiant efforts, Pirates fell just short of matching the 10-1 score line set by their rivals Chiefs all those many years ago. The final whistle blew with the scoreboard showing an 8-1 victory for the Buccaneers, a result that was just two goals shy of equaling the historic record.

 

While they may not have etched their names in the record books, the performance put on by Pirates on Tuesday was nothing short of extraordinary.

 

As the rain continued to fall, each goal scored by Orlando Pirates felt like a testament to their determination and skill. The crowd at Orlando Stadium roared with delight, witnessing a display of footballing excellence that will be remembered for years to come.

 

The Buccaneers showcased their strength and talent, leaving no doubt about their status as a force to be reckoned with in South African football as well as their determination to dethrone defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns from the pedestal of South African football.

 

The rain-soaked day at Orlando Stadium may not have witnessed a 10-1 score line, but it will forever be etched in the memories of fans as a thrilling and unforgettable display of attacking football from Orlando Pirates.