Antonio Van Wyk grabbed the winner as Stellenbosch beat Orlando Pirates 1-0 in their DStv Premiership opener at the Danie Craven Stadium on Saturday night.
There were four new faces on show in this game, as Stellenbosch included three debutants – Olivier Toure, Thabo Moloisane and Genino Palace, while Patrick Maswanganyi started for the Bucs
There were two early chances for Thabang Monare in the opening ten minutes, but the Pirates midfielder was unable to keep them on target.
There were half chances at the other end too, but Stellies battled to find the final touches.
The best chance in the opening half-hour fell to Pirates in the 28th minute as Fortune Makaringe’s powerful attempt rattled the crossbar.
Another good chance fell for Jose Riveiro’s men in the 40th minute but Sage Stephens saved Deon Hotto’s attempt from an acute angle.
It would be costly, as two minutes later Antonio Van Wyk raced free before sliding the ball past Sipho Chaine.
Pirates continued to control the tempo after the break as they tried to turn around the deficit.
But some brave defending from captain Deano Van Rooyen and then new man Toure, denied any early chances for the visitors.
With time running out, Pirates reverted to trying shots from range, with Monare and substitute Katlego Otladisa both shooting off target.
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Kgaogelo Sekgota came on for Stelies and had a chance to make it two for the home team in stoppage time, but Chaine made the save.
Not the start to the season Jose Riveiro would’ve wanted for his title challengers, but a great one for Steve Barker’s team, who pick up the three points.
