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M. Pirates .............................. (1)2

Menzi 11th, 71st

S. Dreams .............................. (1)2

Sandile 15th, Nhlalolenhle 79th

MANZINI – Relegated rookies, Seven Dreams twice came from behind to deny Moneni Pirates any season-closing joy.

It looked as though Pirates were bound to finish the season with a win, as they led 2-1 and dominated play after the 70th minute mark. However, Seven Dreams still had that last kick and it saw them bounce back when winger Nhlalolenhle Khumalo put the ball past the advancing goalie Bhekisisa Dlamini. The teams ended the MTN Premier League 2022/23 campaign with a share of the spoils. Pirates already had the ball in the back of the net inside the final 10 minutes, but there was already a foul on goalkeeper Phila Mkhabela and it did not stand.

It was otherwise a lacklustre match, their last of the season. It was a game about pride more than anything. Seven Dreams had already failed to cheat relegation, while there was also no prize for Pirates but finishing strongly. Captain Menzi ‘Magawugawu’ Simelane beat the goalkeeper from just outside the box before second half substitute Phumlane Shongwe got their second later on in the match. Pirates missed a golden chance right at the death with the keeper beaten, but the ball went inches off the mark before the final whistle was sounded.

Simelane had his goal cancelled out by Seven Dreams’ troublesome forward Sandile Dlamini a few minutes later. They drew level again inside the final 15 minutes through winger Nhlalolenhle Khumalo.