Orlando Pirates showcased their prowess with a commanding 4-0 win against Royal AM in a thrilling DStv Premiership clash at Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg.
The Soweto Giants displayed a formidable performance with four different goal-scorers, delighting their supporters away from home.
With this victory, Orlando Pirates ascend to third place with 43 points, maintaining pressure on second-placed Stellenbosch FC, who are on 46 points.
2nd: Stellenbosch 46 points
3rd: Orlando Pirates: 43 pointsAmabhakabhaka win to the stay within touching distance of Stellies ????#DStvPrem pic.twitter.com/RGjfU5bZZ0
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) April 28, 2024
Meanwhile, Royal AM remains in 13th place, securing a nine-point cushion above the relegation zone.
Mamelodi Sundowns continue to lead the standings with an impressive 56 points and three games in hand over their rivals.
The match saw a slow start but ignited at the half-hour mark when Pirates were controversially awarded a penalty. Despite the contentious decision, Patrick Maswanganyi converted the penalty, giving his side the lead.
Thalente Mbatha extended Pirates’ lead in the 56th minute, capitalizing on a perfect through-ball from Maswanganyi to score confidently.
In the 74th minute, Relebohile Mofokeng added a third goal, effortlessly finding the net past the Royal AM keeper.
The victory was sealed in style when Kabelo Dlamini’s intended cross fortuitously found the top corner of the Royal AM goal, completing a perfect day out for Orlando Pirates.
The line-ups:
Royal AM: Mpoto, Jiyane, Mabuza (Dlamini 85′), Matlaba, Shezi (Cele 85′), Msomi (Macuphu 65′), Magaqa, Mahlasela, Maxwele, Ndlovu (Thikazi 65′), George (Masuku 85′).
Pirates: Buthelezi, Maela, Lebitso (Monyane 17′), Xoki (Mthethwa 60′), Sesane, Makhaula, Mbatha, Maswanganyi (Kapinga 88′), Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 88′), Saleng (Dlamini 60′), Mabasa.