It was Chiefs’ first League defeat this season, but Mbalula – who at times cannot disguise his support for Pirates – was at his diplomatic best when he said he hoped Amakhosi bounce back when the Soweto Giants cross swords again during the Telkom KnockOut semi-final at the same venue next Saturday.
Issah Sarr, Ayanda Gcaba and Thamsanqa Gabuza scored with a lone reply from Erick Mathoho as Pirates demolished the Phefeni Glamour Boys; the 3-1 scoreline perhaps flattering Chiefs.
“I think people came here with expectations that Chiefs will win it,” Mbalula says. “But the Derby is always another story; it’s it’s not about who beat who during the week before.
“Pirates came to the party. Pirates were a strong machine. This was what I call total demolition.
“I think Chiefs, knowing how they play, I think didn’t play well from word go. They were not connecting well," Mbalula adds.
“I hope Chiefs can recover next week as it is always exciting to see this rivalry go on. Next week we will be here again, but the best team won today. Pirates deserve it.”