PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Former Safa Eden Regional League champions Bitou Young Pirates staged a dramatic comeback to edge FC United 3-2 at Kwanokuthula Stadium in Plettenberg Bay last Saturday.
The match marked the first fixture of 2026 for both sides. FC United, from Knysna, had ended 2025 at the top of the regional league standings, but Bitou Young Pirates ensured they did not remain at the summit.
Pirates collected four points over the weekend, having also drawn 1-1 with Voota FC, with both teams now level on nine points after six matches.
The first half was evenly balanced, with FC United starting at a fast pace and earning a penalty shortly before the break, which they failed to convert. The goalless half reflected the tight contest.
FC United struck first in an intense second half to take a 1-0 lead, but Pirates responded swiftly to equalise. FC United regained the advantage at 2-1, yet missed chances proved costly.
After squandering a penalty of their own, Bitou Young Pirates showed resilience, scoring twice late on to seal an entertaining 3-2 victory and claim local bragging rights.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
