Orlando Pirates Player Ratings: Hotto and Erasmus disappointing but Monare dazzles against Mamelodi Sundowns

One of Pirates' better players on the day.
Chaine made three great saves throughout the game and showed good anticipation. However, he was well-beaten by Mailula's shot. 

A threat to Downs when he pushed forward.
Shandu got into good positions when he overlapped and forced goalkeeper Ronwen Williams into a fine save. He was rarely tested defensively.

Tormented by Mailula.
Maela couldn't keep up with the mobile forward who ended up scoring the decisive goal. The Pirates captain also didn't offer much going forward.

Gave away possession and Pirates were punished.
Apart from that mistake, Sibisi played well as he neutralized Peter Shalulile and he won most of their duels.

Another decent display by the centre-back.
Xoki used his pace and physicality to good effect, while also making important clearances and interceptions.

Pirates' best player on the day.
Monare looked elegant on the ball and he carried the team forward. The Soweto giants should have been awarded a penalty after he was fouled in the opposition's box. 

Not at his best.
Timm was tidy in possession but could not make an impact when Sundowns had the ball. 

An aerial threat in Downs' box.
However, Mosele couldn't keep his headers on target. He was bypassed with far too much ease by the opposition in midfield and was among the first two Bucs players to be substituted.

Dismal performance.
Hotto was starved of service and struggled to get involved in proceedings. He was substituted 10 minutes into the second-half. 

Tried to make things happen.
Saleng's delivery from set-pieces was good as he forced Williams into making a couple of decent saves. Bucs are becoming over-reliant on him.

Disappointing display.
Erasmus was well-shackled by the Downs defence and was unable to test Williams in goal at all.

Became a constant threat to the Sundowns defence after coming on in the 55th minute and came close to scoring when he hit the upright.

Did his best to get Pirates back on the front foot but could not penetrate the resolute Downs defence having been introduced in the 55th minute. 

Also looked bright in the 15-odd minutes he spent on the pitch but could not get his side back into the game.

Martin hardly got on the ball and was largely anonymous after coming on for the final 15 minutes or so.

Rarely touched the ball in what was his second debut for Pirates.