Staff Reporter.
Orlando Pirates moved up to third place in the DStv Premiership after thrashing Golden Arrows 7-1 at Orlando Stadium on Saturday evening.
Pirates got off to an auspicious start as striker Tshegofatso Mabasa broke the deadlock for the home side just 11 minutes into the game, capitalizing on a rebound. The hosts maintained their momentum, with Relebohile Mofokeng extending their lead to 2-0 three minutes later, slotting the ball into an empty net after evading goalkeeper Sifiso Mlungwana.
Then, Kabelo Dlamini compounded Arrows’ woes with a strike at the near post, making it 3-0. On the brink of halftime, Mabasa had a chance to further widen the gap from the penalty spot, however, his tame effort was saved, leaving the scoreline at 3-0 as they headed into the break.
In the second half, the Sea Robbers picked up right where they left off, with Mabasa scoring the fourth goal after 52 minutes. The Buccaneers continued their onslaught as Sandile Mthethwa compounded Arrows’ misery with a header, extending the lead to 5-0.
In the 76th minute, Lungelo Nguse managed to secure a consolation goal for coach Steve Komphela’s side, but their respite was short-lived as Mabasa completed his hat-trick, propelling Pirates to a commanding 6-1 lead. Substitute Karim Kimvuidi extended the lead to 7-1 and drove Pirates’ hopes for the Caf Champions League as they climbed to third place in the league standings.
Meanwhile Stellenbosch extended their unbeaten run in the DStv Premiership to 14 games after they shared the spoils in a 0-0 draw with Sekhukhune United at the Danie Craven Stadium
Elsewhere Kaizer Chiefs were made to pay for their wastefulness after Chippa United took full advantage to emerge 2-0 victors at the Buffalo City Stadium and Richards Bay FC made crucial ground in the hunt for DStv Premiership survival this week following a hard-fought 1-0 win against Moroka Swallows at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday, April 6.
DSTV Premiership Results
Supersport United 0-1 TS Galaxy.