By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Orlando Pirates secured a crucial 2-0 victory against Richards Bay at the Orlando Amsel Arena on Wednesday evening to reclaim the Betway Premiership top spot.
Pirates recorded their third straight win and remain level with Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the log on 47 points, but have gone ahead on goal difference.
The hosts opened the scoring in the 26th minute with Kamogelo Sebelebele, who managed to get to the ball at the byline in the box and pull it across the face of goal for the arriving Oswin Appollis to tap home his fourth league goal of the season.
Pirates left-back Deno Hotto came close in the 65th minute, and, however, was denied by goalkeeper Ian Otieno. Substitute Tshepang Moremi almost added to the Buccaneers’ advantage with 20 minutes to go, but had his shot slightly go over the bar.
In stoppage time, Moremi was chopped down in Richards Bay box, resulting in a penalty. Evidence Makgopa buried the spot kick to double the Buccaneers’ lead at the death.
Pirates will be back at home on Saturday as they host Siwelele FC, while Richards Bay are involved in another provincial derby against AmaZulu at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, also on Saturday.