Orlando Pirates thump Royal AM as race for second heats up

Orlando Pirates thump Royal AM as race for second heats up

Orlando Pirates were at their free-flowing best as they romped to a 4-0 victory over Royal AM in their DStv Premiership match, at Harry Gwala Stadium, in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday.

With four different goal-scorers on the day for the Soweto Giants, it was a match to remember for their loyal supporters away from home.

With the win, Pirates move up to 43 points in third spot as they keep up pace with second-placed Stellenbosch FC on 46 points.

Mamelodi Sundowns are still leagues ahead with 56 points and three games in hand over Stellenbosch and Pirates.

Controversial opener

Though the match got off to a slow start, it caught fire at the half-hour mark as Pirates were awarded a contentious penalty. Though TV replays showed the foul was outside the box, the referee pointed to the spot and Patrick Maswanganyi stepped up and converted to put side ahead.

Thalente Mbatha doubled the lead for Pirates in the 56th minute as he ran onto the perfect through-ball from Maswanganyi in the box and he made no mistake to fire home for a two-goal cushion.

Relebohile Mofokeng made it three for his side in the 74th minute as he made his way into the box unhindered by any defenders, before he picked out his spot past a hapless Royal AM keeper Mondli Mpoto.

Less than 10 minutes later, Kabelo Dlamini looked to attempt a cross into the box but when he looked up the ball had lobbed fortuitously into the top corner of the Royal AM goal, to complete a perfect day out for Orlando Pirates.

@Golfhackno1

IOL Sport