Orlando Pirates punish Ronnie Kanalelo’s unbeaten boast in Gallants defeat

Ronnie Kanalelo’s claim that he had never lost to Orlando Pirates came back to haunt him as Marumo Gallants FC began his tenure with a 2-0 defeat in the Betway Premiership.

The newly appointed Gallants head coach made the statement on the club’s social media platforms before the match, drawing attention to his record against the Buccaneers during his time at Mamelodi Sundowns.

“I never lost against Pirates, that’s what I’m bringing to this game,” said the former Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper.

But that record lasted only one more match. Orlando Pirates took control of the contest and continued their pursuit of the Betway Premiership summit, while Kanalelo’s prediction quickly became the focus of social media discussion.

Kabelo Kgotsitsile opened the scoring in the first half before Nkosinathi Sibisi secured victory with a powerful header in the 73rd minute.

The result marked a difficult start to Kanalelo’s first game in charge of a PSL club. Supporters highlighted the speed with which his unbeaten run against Orlando Pirates came to an end after the pre-match boast.

The defeat also left Marumo Gallants at the bottom of the table and firmly involved in the relegation battle.

Gallants will attempt to respond when they face Sekhukhune United on Saturday 17 October. The Betway Premiership fixture will begin at 18:00 at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.