Keeper howler sinks Pirates

Cape Town - An early set piece by former Orlando Pirates winger Daine Klate ensured Bidvest Wits walked away with the full three points in their Absa Premiership encounter held at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.

Pirates goalkeeper Felipe Ovono handed the visitors an early goal when he misjudged Klate’s set piece and spilled the ball into his own net.

The game was packed with drama as three red cards were issued by referee Victor Gomes with Calvin Kadi, Thulani Hlatshwayo and Lehlohonolo Masalesa all receiving early showers. 

The opening few minutes were full of pace from the visitors as they spent much of their time in the Buccaneers’ half and as early as the ninth minute they were awarded a penalty when Sifiso Myeni fouled Phakamani Mahlambi, but Felipe Ovono saved Henrico Botes’ spot kick.

Shortly thereafter, Ovono spilled the ball allowing the visitors to grab an early lead following a great set piece by Daine Klate down the right flank. 

Eric Tinkler’s men tried to calm things down and knock the ball around but it the visitors who were equal to anything thrown at them. Wits were dealt a huge blow in the 32nd minute when Hlatshwayo was red carded for a dangerous foul on Myeni.

In the second half, the Sea Robbers were all over the Clever Boys, but their decision making in the final third couldn’t produce a result.

Early in the second half, Thabo Matlaba made a trademark move into the box, but his effort sailed over the bar once again.

Substitute Kermit Erasmus managed to trick Buhle Mkhwanazi and find some space to unleash a shot only for Josephs to make a great save.

Wits managed to hold onto their slender lead and emerge victorious.

Following the win, the Braamfontein-based side climb up to first position with 16 points on the Absa Premiership standings, whilst the hosts are placed at position 11 with five points from seven matches.