Johannesburg – Orlando Pirates have roared back into contention in the Betway Premiership! After a disappointing 3-0 defeat to St Eloi Lupopo in the CAF Champions League, the Buccaneers secured a crucial victory against Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium.
Moremi's Early Strike Seals the Deal
Tshepang Moremi, fresh off his World Cup qualification heroics with Bafana Bafana, continued his impressive form. The left-footed winger struck the decisive blow in the sixth minute, sending the Orlando Stadium crowd into raptures. Oswin Appolis' cross caused havoc in the Polokwane City defence, with goalkeeper Brian Bwire only able to parry the ball into Moremi's path. The in-form winger made no mistake, slotting home his second league goal of the season.
Pirates dominated much of the match, creating several opportunities to extend their lead. Moremi himself came close to a second in the 23rd minute, but scuffed his shot after a clever chip from Patrick Maswanganyi. Maswanganyi nearly got on the scoresheet himself with a curling effort that went just wide.
Polokwane City Struggle to Respond
Polokwane City struggled to create clear-cut chances. Their best opportunity of the first half came from a freekick, but the resulting header was off target. Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was called into action to deny Bonginkosi Dlamini after he had dispossessed a defender on the edge of the area.
The win sees Orlando Pirates close the gap on league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to just three points, with two games in hand. The Buccaneers have now won six consecutive league games and have moved up to third in the table. Polokwane City, meanwhile, remain in sixth place with 15 points from 10 games.
Pirates will be looking to continue their winning streak in their next Betway Premiership encounter, while Polokwane City will be aiming to bounce back from this defeat.