Kaizer Chiefs suffered their second defeat of the season, ahead of the Soweto Derby after a 2-1 defeat loss to Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium on Tuesday evening.
In an omen that boded well for the visitors going into the game, Stellies have been unbeaten against Chiefs on Tuesday games in the Betway Premiership history – but they were made to work for the three points they secured at the Calabash.
Chiefs sprung a susprise with the inclusion of Ethan Chislett in the starting line-up and he looked lively in the opening half in the 10 role, before Amakhosi eventually opened the scoring through Flavio Silva, tapping in a point point cross from Glody Lilepo.
But it could have been more comfortable going into the break as Ashley du Preez had a goal ruled out through off-side, and missed a clear open goal after rounding Sage Stephens.
He was made to rue those missed opportunities – as in-form Stellenbosch winger Langelihle Phili netted his seventh league goal of the season, going just two behind Golden Arrows’ Sede Dion (9) in the Golden Boot race, after being teed up by the influential Devin Titus.
It threatened to become an attacking end to end affair, with Gavin Hunt’s side in desperate need of points to steer clear of the surprisingly relegation threats they have faced this season.
But what was on display proved to be devoid of real quality for large stages, with plenty of turn overs in possesion from both sides and notably bringing the early atmosphere from the home support to a more tense and subdued feeling.
But late on Titus, who netted that stunner in Cape Town when they eliminated Chiefs from the Nedbank Cup popped up with the winner to stun the Amakhosi faithful.
The defeat leaves Chiefs outside the top three behind Sekhukhune United, and eight points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns – who beat AmaZulu 1-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Meanwhile, Stellies moved up to 11th place – five points ahead of 15th placed ORBIT College – who have played a game more – and occupy the relegation play-off spot.
