Orlando Pirates Cruise Past Kruger United To Maintain Unbeaten Start
The defending champions moved three points clear at the top with a 4-0 win, extending their opening five-match league run to four victories and a draw.
Orlando Pirates continued their unbeaten start to the Betway Premiership season with a 4-0 victory over Kruger United, although the defending champions were made to work for their advantage during a competitive first half.
The Buccaneers now have four wins and one draw from their first five league matches. The result puts Pirates three points ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who are scheduled to face Milford FC on Wednesday.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Kaizer Chiefs Hold Richards Bay To Rain-Soaked Draw
Pirates made an immediate impact when they were awarded a penalty in the third minute. Winger Kamogelo Sebelebele was fouled inside the area, allowing Ghampani Lungu to take responsibility from the spot and give the Soweto side an early lead.
Kruger, playing in the PSL after their promotion, responded positively and created several chances to level the contest.
Kruger Miss Chances To Draw Level
Aphiwe Mphote came close with a header but sent his effort over the crossbar. The striker then had another opportunity, only for his attempt to be cleared off the line by Orlando Pirates defender S’bangani Zulu.
Kruger’s clearest chance fell to Boitumelo Malatji. Left unmarked at the far post, Malatji struck the woodwork from close range before Pirates eventually cleared the danger.
Those opportunities gave Kruger reason to believe they could find an equaliser, but the newcomers were unable to convert their openings.
Pirates Pull Away After The Break
The second half belonged more firmly to Pirates as their attacking players began to have a greater influence on the contest.
Boitumelo Radiopane doubled the champions’ advantage after beating the offside trap and finishing the resulting opportunity.
Pirates then added two more goals through substitute Yanela Mbuthuma, who came off the bench to score twice and complete the 4-0 victory.
The result preserves Pirates’ unbeaten record after five league matches and keeps them ahead of Sundowns in the early Premiership standings, with Sundowns having an opportunity to close the gap when they meet Milford FC on Wednesday.
