Orlando Pirates ended their 14-year league drought in dramatic fashion, benefiting from two own goals by Orbit College defenders Ndumiso Ngiba and Sabelo Nkomo in a tense final-day clash.
Needing only a victory to seal the title, the Buccaneers dominated proceedings but struggled to convert their chances.
Their breakthrough eventually came through an unfortunate own goal before a second defensive error from Orbit handed Pirates a comfortable cushion.
The result secured a historic treble for the Sea Robbers, capping off a memorable campaign.
However, the nature of the victory sparked debate among rival supporters on social media, with some questioning the legitimacy of the result after Orbit conceded two own goals.
Pirates benefit after own goals
@Ta_Fitty wrote: “Hayi no, the bank notifications have reflected now.”
@NathiSibiya8 added: “I’ve never seen such — two own goals. They must be investigated.”
@MrksPSLClub posted: “These are the weakest champions I’ve ever seen.
“You play two games without scoring a single goal, then on the last day the Orbit goalkeeper scores an own goal. Then Orbit score another own goal.
“Was this league bought by Pirates knowing next season VAR is coming?”
Despite the criticism, Pirates supporters quickly defended their club and pointed to past incidents involving Mamelodi Sundowns. Fans referenced Sundowns’ 7-4 victory over Siwelele, a match in which Siwelele also conceded two own goals.
@JustTrish_23 responded: “Siwelele scored two own goals and conceded seven. Nobody cried, we all laughed about it.”
@NtombikayiseBa6 added: “Siwelele literally scored two own goals and still failed to win the league, that’s the truth we both know. I’m loving your tears though.”