Citizens ‘Hunt’ first ‘Big 3’ scalp

DURBAN City face another massive test of their topflight credentials on Saturday when they welcome Orlando Pirates to the Moses Mabhida Stadium, chasing what would be a landmark first ‘Big Three’ victory of their debut campaign.

- SMISO MSOMI

For all their bright moments since promotion, City have yet to deliver a performance that cracks the ceiling between promise and real authority. Their outings against the heavyweights have exposed that gap.

They were outclassed by Mamelodi Sundowns and beaten by Kaizer Chiefs, results expected to some extent but still reflective of the distance the newcomers must travel. What has raised more concern, however, is their inconsistency in high-emotion, high-pressure KZN fixtures.

City have drawn with Golden Arrows, shared the spoils again with Richards Bay last weekend, and lost to AmaZulu, while also being knocked out of the Carling Knockout Cup by the Natal Rich Boys. The pattern suggests a team still learning to manage big moments rather than one that thrives on them.