The Buccaneers became the first team to beat the fan-selected All-Stars outfit in the competition's history, after the makeshift side had won the previous two editions against Stellenbosch FC and Magesi FC respectively.

Fresh from lifting the Carling Knockout trophy last week, Pirates were eager to deliver one final festive gift to their supporters, despite fielding a heavily rotated squad that blended experience with youth, due to the unavailability of their key players who are national duty for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Teenager Simphiwe Masilela was handed a rare start, while defenders Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane returned from injury layoffs.

The opening exchanges were scrappy as both sides struggled for rhythm, with the All-Stars still finding cohesion and Pirates adjusting to multiple changes. Controversy soon followed in the 23rd minute when Mfundo Vilakazi went down under a challenge from Makhehleni Makhaula inside the box. Referee Siyabonga Nkomo waved play on and booked the Kaizer Chiefs midfielder for simulation, though replays appeared to suggest there was contact.

All-Stars continued to ask questions and had another strong penalty appeal late in the first half when Ndah tugged Naledi Hlongwane inside the area, but once again the referee was unmoved as the teams went into the break goalless.

Pirates showed greater urgency after the restart, with Deon Hotto driving their attacking play down the left flank. The Namibian winger created a clear opening early in the half, but the All-Stars defence managed to scramble clear.

All-Stars enjoyed a spell of sustained pressure midway through the second half, but their indecision in the box allowed Pirates goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi to remain largely untroubled.

The breakthrough arrived in the 68th minute when Hotto produced a moment of quality, picking out substitute Sifiso Luthuli with a perfectly weighted pass. The forward showed composure as he delicately lobbed the ball over the advancing All Stars goalkeeper Naphtali Mokoena, who replaced Brandon Petersen at half-time.

The All-Stars threw men forward in search of an equaliser, with Nuno Santos and Mduduzi Shabalala posing the main threat, but Pirates sealed the contest late on when Boitumelo Radiopane produced a clinical finish to secure the Carling Cup crown.

Malesela challenges Gallants to stay on track