Staff Reporter.
Orlando Pirates came from behind to beat Marumo Gallants 2-1 in a DStv Premiership clash played at the Orlando stadium on Monday.
The victory moved Pirates up to second in the league standings but still a distant 16 points behind Mamelodi Sundowns.
Gallants got off to the perfect start when they took an early lead in the 12th minute courtesy of Siphelele Ntshangase’s first competitive goal since 2015.
The former Kaizer Chiefs playmaker’s cross, which was meant for Sede Junior Dion, beat goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane at the far-post to hand Gallants a 1-0 lead.
The Buccaneers responded by exerting pressure on the visitors and the hosts level matters when Kwame Peprah scored with a low shot in the 24th minute to make it 1-1.
The Ghanaian marksman looked hungry for goals after netting his first goal for the Soweto giants in his 13th appearance and he duly completed his brace two minutes later.
Peprah turned home a low cross from Thembinkosi Lorch, who grabbed his second assist of the game and Pirates were deservingly leading 2-1 at half time after showing character to come back from the early setback.
Gallants pushed for the equalising goal after the restart with Katlego Otladisa’s delightful cross finding Dion, but his effort was comfortably saved by Mpontshane from close range.
Pirates were unwilling to sit back and invite pressure. Ntsako Makhubela forced keeper Washington Arubi into a fine save from close range on the hour-mark.
The Bucs technical team introduced Fortune Makaringe, Terrence Dzvukamanja and Abel Mabaso and the Buccaneers played on the counter in the closing stages of the game.
Gallants pressed in the final minutes to force an equaliser but their efforts proved in vain as Pirates claimed all three points.
Meanwhile ever since Pirates were hammered 4-1 on Friday by Sundowns there have numerous reports doing the rounds linking former Chippa United coach Gavin Hunt to the head coaching position at Bucs.
Hunt said he is going to enjoy the festive break after his brief spell at Chippa United and has no plans for the immediate future.