The Carling Black Label Cup pre-season curtain-raiser allowed us the opportunity to assess the Soweto giants' new signings.
With the new season only days away, Soccer Laduma took a look at how they fared.
Read: Khuzwayo Forced To Retire At 29
Orlando Pirates:
Fortune Makaringe - 6.5 out of 10
The new Pirates midfielder replaced Thembankosi Lorch on 51st minutes. Although the former Maritzburg man didn`t see the ball much, he didn`t look out of place. In the last 15 minutes, Makaringe had a chance to endear himself to the Pirates faithful. Instead of playing the ball across for Justin Shonga to tap in, his selfish strike trickled wide of Bruce Bvuma`s goal. Overall, he wasn`t fantastic, but is expected to improve.
Bongani Sam - 8 out of 10
New left-back, Bongani Sam came off the bench during the 58th minute to replace Innocent Maela. Sam, from his first touch, looked accomplished. He was composed and comfortable up and down the left flank. He restricted opposition full-back Reeve Frosler. Overall, the 21-year-old is sure to give Maela a run for his money once the new season commences.
Gabadinho Mhango - 6 out of 10
The former Wits forward replaced Justin Shonga in the 72nd minute and was quiet throughout. One cannot recall Mhango making side-splitting passes, dribbling past players or being effective in the final third. Largely ineffective.
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Kaizer Chiefs:
Samir Nurkovic - 6 out of 10
New Kaiser Chiefs centre forward, Samir Nurkovic replaced Khama Billiat on 66 minutes. For the 24 minutes he played, he camped in the 18-yard area and unfortunately the service to him was below par. Crosses delivered were easily cleared by the likes of Happy Jele and Justice Chabalala. When he looked for the ball in wide areas, he looked out of his depth and hardly threatened.
Lazarous Kambole - 5 out of 10
Cut out his extraordinary miss and you`ll find a forward who could impress this season. His movement and pace caused the Pirates back four problems, particularly in the first half. He and Khama Billiat dovetailed well together. He always played off the shoulder of the last man and created shooting opportunities for himself. However, at the end of the season, a striker will be judged solely on his goal tally. Goals will be key.
Who do you think performed well in the Carling Black Label Cup Soweto Derby? Let us know in the comment section below!
