By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
Orlando Pirates’ ideal start at the Amstel Arena came courtesy of an emphatic 2–0 win over Magesi FC in the Betway Premiership on Saturday evening.
The result saw Pirates regain their second spot from Kaizer Chiefs and they are now tied on 32 points with log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, but they have a game in hand over the Brazilians. Magesi remained bottom of the log with 11 points after 15 games.
Relebohile Mofokeng showed his class with a goal and an assist while both Andre de Jong and Daniel Msendami came off the bench for their Pirates debuts after joining from Stellenbosch, and Marumo Gallants respectively.
Pirates took the lead in the ninth minute, as Mofokeng burst into the box once more, cutting the ball back for Yanela Mbuthuma. The striker made no mistake from close range, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner.
After assisting the first goal, Mofokeng bagged one of his own to double the hosts lead in the 41st minute, finding the bottom left corner from just outside the area with a well-placed strike.
The hosts missed another golden opportunity on stoppage time. De Jong left the ball in the middle of the box for Masindi Nemtajela but he was dispossessed before he could pass to an open teammate in the area.
Pirates will continue their quest for top spot in the Betway Premiership as they face AmaZulu at the Princess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday.
Magesi will be looking to change their fortunes against Upington City of the Motsepe Foundation Championship in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium on Saturday.
Betway Premiership Results
Chippa United 2-2 Polokwane City.