The weekend will go down as one to forget for the so-called “big three” in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC).
Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs were all humbled.
Orlando Pirates 0-1 Stellenbosch FC
Pirates lost ground in the DDC title race in a 1-0 defeat to Stellenbosch FC who are now leading the log standings.
Pirates came to the match with a clear idea that a defeat could turn things from bad to worse in their title quest.
However, that did not stop them from disappointing their fanatics.
Describing their performance against Stellenbosch we can just say they did not show up.
Stellies dominated the match and could have scored more goals.
Langelihle Phili first-half goal proved to be enough to earn Stellies all three points on the day to complete a double over Pirates this season as they defeated them with the same scoreline early this year.
Pirates had a glorious opportunity to get a goal in the 54th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Lebo Mohlala failed to convert from the spot kick.
The result saw ambitious Stellies moving to the summit of the Diski Challenge with 57 points after 26 matches.
The Winelands-based outfit now stands a chance of joining Golden Arrows by becoming the second team to win the Diski Challenge title.
Arrows achieved the rare feat in the 2015/2016 season and 2017/2018 season.
Stellies won the 2021-22 Diski Challenge title.
Mamelodi Sundowns 0-1 Sekhukhune United
Sundowns' youngsters will have only themselves to blame after failing to maintain their place at the top of the DDC table.
The youngsters suffered a 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune on Sunday afternoon.
Sundowns dominated the match but failed to crack Babina Noko’s defence who did not enjoy much time on the ball.
Sundowns made one mistake and were punished by Keletso Sifama who was introduced in the second half of the match.
The result was a bitter pill to swallow as it saw them dropping from position one to second in the log.
Sundowns now have a mountain to climb as their next match will be against Kaizer Chiefs next Sunday.
Kaizer Chiefs 1-2 Polokwane City
After a 3-1 home defeat against Cape Town Spurs last Sunday, many expected struggling Polokwane City to face the wrath of Chiefs at Dobsonville Stadium.
But it didn’t quite work out that way.
Chiefs were the first to find the back of the net in the 14th minute of the match through Donay Janse.
However, Polokwane City showed mental strength as they scored twice in the 20th minute and 30th and managed the game to get all three points.
This was a big result for Polokwane as it was their third victory in 26 matches.
The result means Chiefs' title hopes are all over as they are now 10 points behind leaders.