Cape Town - Orlando Pirates claimed the Bokone Bophirima Maize Cup after a win 3-1 penalty shootout win over Platinum Stars at Moruleng Stadium on Saturday.
Cavin Johnson and Mushin Ertugral used the fixture as a dry run before the new Premiership campaign as their starting XI's begin to take shape.
It was the veterans who enjoyed most of the chances and impressed on the day, with Robert Ng'ambi and Ndumiso Mabena looking particularly lively for Dikwena, while exciting wingers Thabo Rakhale and Luvoyo Memela looked threatening on the wings, a clear sign that the Turkish manager's tactics are starting to take hold.
Despite no goals being scored over the course of the 90 minutes, an unlikely hero was found in the penalty shoot-out as the out-of-favour Felipe Ovono helped the Buccaneers to a 3-1 win in the shootout with two crucial saves.
Platinum Stars XI: Mbongeni Mzimela, Gumede, Sphamandla Mlilo, Siyabonga Zulu, Sphiwe Mnguni, Vuyo Mere, Robert Ng'ambi, Ndumiso Mabena, Henrico Botes, Thamsanqa Gwabeni, Tintswalo Tshabalala
Substitutes: Nhlakanipho Duma, Kobamelo Kodisang, Gift Links, Katlego Khunou, Charles Baloyi
Orlando Pirates XI: Jackson Mabokgwane, Thabo Matlaba, Justice Chabalala, Edwin Gyimah, Thembela Sikhakhane, Issa Sarr, Oupa Manyisa, Mpho Makola, Thabo Qalinge, Thabo Rakhale, Tendai Ndoro
Substitutes: Felipe Ovono, Patrick Phungwayo, Ayanda Nkosi, Mahlatse Makudubela, Thamsanqa Gabuza, Ntsikelelo Nyauza, Luvoyo Memela