On Sunday, a huge crowd turned up at the Toyota Stadium to witness Celtic beating the Soweto Giants, Orlando Pirates, for the first time since 2016.

While they tend to be the bogey side for the Buccaneers, it has been some time since their added a “w” to their name.

Despite having won their two opening games against Chippa United and Golden Arrows, Celtic was still seen as the underdogs.

Pirates, in their turn, were favourites, even though their season has not started well at all.

The one and only goal came in the 17th minute when Bongani Sam sent a bicycle-kick into the back of the net.

This didn’t stop the Buccaneers’ attack, but it was Alfred Ndungane, a pillar of strength in the defence, who was hugely instrumental in preventing the visitors from earning any points.

Following the match, the coach, Steve Komphela, lauded his team for a third straight clean sheet.

“I think the biggest thing was the result. They just got themselves nine points, did not concede again.

“You could see that there were moments where they wanted to play freely but you understand that you’re playing against a team like Pirates, who play at high speed so you need to be highly concentrated.

“It was clear from the onset that it was going to be a measured game, a game of respect from both teams. And I thought we could have maybe buried one or two more chances to make it 2-0 or 3-0.”

Celtic has a bit of a breather this week due to the first leg of the MTN 8 semi-finals taking place this week.

The side from Bloemfontein will be up against Kaizer Chiefs next, who in their turn are playing in the semi-finals against SuperSport United.

While the Amakhosi are not firing on all cylinders at the moment, Komphela warns that they must forget about their three previous results.

Chiefs and Celtic lock horns next week Wednesday at the FNB Stadium.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport