In-form Orlando Pirates sweep aside Chippa United with commanding Premier Soccer League away victory to edge closer to Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United

Just nine minutes in, Orlando Pirates drew first blood when Patrick Maswanganyi pounced on a costly defensive blunder from Chippa United. The home side’s backline looked shaky from the start, with loose passes and poor clearances piling pressure on themselves and gifting the Buccaneers early control. 

Then, four minutes before the break, Deon Hotto boosted his confidence, slotting home Pirates’ second to tighten their grip on the game. 

Heading into the second half with a comfortable 2-0 cushion, the Buccaneers were handed a lifeline to extend their advantage when the referee awarded a rather questionable penalty after Evidence Makgopa went down on the edge of the box. Maswanganyi stepped up with confidence, but his attempt from the spot was denied by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Despite failing to stretch their advantage from the penalty spot, Pirates maintained a firm grip on proceedings, relentlessly pressing Chippa’s defence. Their dominance nearly paid off again when Oswin Appollis rattled the upright, keeping the pressure firmly on the hosts. Moments later, Appollis turned provider, threading a clever pass to substitute Tshepang Moremi, who calmly slotted home to put Pirates 3-0 ahead. 

While Pirates had chances to add to their tally, the 3-0 victory was more than enough to secure three points on the road, along with a clean sheet and up to fifth-place on the PSL standings - four points behind leaders, Sekhuknune United and Kiazer Chiefs.

It was a close call between Oswin Appollis and Thabiso Lebitso, who impressed on his return from injury. But the nod goes to Appollis, whose attacking influence and crucial assist made the difference. 

The Chilli Boys’ defence was in complete disarray, with their backline crumbling under the slightest bit of pressure. The team played as though they lacked both direction and purpose, leaving them looking uncertain of their game plan and unable to impose themselves on the contest. 

After a relentless start to the season, Pirates will no doubt breathe a sigh of relief as the FIFA international break arrives. Bafana Bafana are set to face Lesotho and Nigeria in crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with no fewer than seven Bucs stars called up for national duty. 

For those staying behind, the focus will immediately shift to preparation for a massive occasion, the MTN8 final showdown against Stellenbosch, scheduled for Saturday, 13 September.