After Orlando Pirates edged Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby on Saturday, Soccer Laduma looks at five lessons taken out from the encounter.
The Buccaneers moved up to seventh on the standings with their 1-0 victory over Amakhosi, but still have a lot to do as they are nine points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who will return to domestic action after the international break.
READ: Chiefs' Striker Conveyor Belt In Numbers
Both sides are struggling upfront
Both Chiefs and Pirates are struggling upfront and it was apparent over the weekend. While the Buccaneers would have been pleased with the three points, coach Jose Riveiro will no doubt be looking at ways to improve the strike force, as will be the case for Cavin Johnson at Naturena. Chiefs did not test Melusi Buthelezi in the Pirates goal.
Chiefs don't have too many impact players
Christian Saile has often come on to make a difference for Amakhosi, but the Naturena outfit does not seem to have too many other options when it comes to players making a valuable impact as substitutes. This should be a concern for Amakhosi, who still have a lot to play for this season. They do have the January transfer window to try to bolster the squad.
Makgopa needs more time?
Evidence Makgopa bagged his first Soweto derby goal and that will certainly give him the confidence he needs to get into good positions and find the back of the net regularly. He's come under fire at times, but the derby was a reminder that he still needs more time to grow into a striker that can score regularly for Pirates.
Maswanganyi a man for the big occasion
Named man of the match on Saturday, Maswanganyi put on an enterprising performance as he gave the Chiefs defence problems. He showed maturity in key areas of the field as he tried to get Pirates forward and made an effort to find openings in the Amakhosi backline.
READ: Pirates' Makgopa U-Turn Explained
Ngcobo still finding his feet
Highly rated at Naturena, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo is still finding his feet after spending a lot of time out on the sidelines. He was unable to make an impact and it was evident that he is not quite match fit, as he was taken off in the 60th minute.
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