The early-season domestic cup produced a couple of surprises that saw defending Champions, Cape Town City, beaten and Orlando Pirates pipped to a semi-final berth by minnows, Highlands Park. 

Cape Town City vs Polokwane City 

The battle of the Citys saw the inland Northeners thrash their coastal foes by 2 goals to nil. Mohammed Anas and Charlton Mushumba put the defending champions to the sword with brilliant curlers including a late strike from Mushumba. This means Benni McCarthy’s charges crash out of the competition they impressively won last year and will now turn their focus to the league. 

Orlando Pirates vs Highlands Park 

Following the shock resignation of Milutin Sredojevic after a 3-0 thumping at the hands of bogey team Supersport United, the Pirates team had a difficult task at hand with focus probably difficult to come by under interim coach Rhulani Mokwena, who had only a couple of days to prepare the team. The Buccaneers suffered a shock 1-0 courtesy of a sublime finish by Wayde Jooste. The Buccaneers will be looking for redemption in their next game, having suffered three losses on the trot.
 

 

Mamelodi Sundowns vs Bloemfontein Celtic 

Pitso Mosimane is building something of a dynasty at Chloorkop, with his team a dynamic winning machine, seemingly able to bounce back from any situation. Masandawana suffered a surprising concession after veteran, Ndumiso Mabena, scored via a free kick 12minutes in to the second half. This was completely against the run of play, for Downs, as per usual, were dominating proceedings. Mosimane’s charges were rewarded for their hardwork when they won a penalty and dispatched it via Themba Zwane for the equaliser. Keletso Makgalwa and Musa Lebusa would complete the come back for Pitso’s side, ensuring a spot in the semifinals. 

Bidvest Wits vs Supersport United 

Gavin Hunt’s side completely capitulated against an inspired Supersport United, despite having home advantage. Bradley Grobler continued from where he left off in midweek to put United ahead while Gabuza in a redemptive spirit scored two goals, an emphatic header and a well–placed penalty to see his new side advance to the semis. Sipho Mbule continues to impress for Matsatsantsa, and will be one to lookout for in the new season. 

 Semi-Final fixtures: 

 SuperSport United v Mamelodi Sundowns 

Polokwane City v Highlands Park 

*The dates and venues will be announced by the Premier Soccer League in due course.

-JP