Lucas Ribeiro Costa blows Orlando Pirates away as Mamelodi Sundowns boost PSL record-extending title defence bid with big win

Sundowns defender Grant Kekana struck into the roof off a Marcelo Allende freekick to give Sundowns the lead 13 minutes into the contest.

Then in the 27th minute, Lucas Ribeiro Costa shot into the far bottom corner a feed from Teboho Mokoena after a solo run from Masandawana's half.

Deon Hotto gave Pirates hopes of a comeback when he reduced arrears in the 57th minute off a deflection via Lucas Suarez.

But Ribeiro was back to strike again two minutes later with another bottom corner strike and gave the Buccaneers further advantage for his ninth league goal of the season.

Teboho Mokoena then dashed Pitates' hopes of collecting at least a point when he unleashed his trademark long shot from outside the box with 12 minutes to go to cement a 4-1 victory for Sundowns and give them a nine-point lead on the PSL table.

Ribeiro's brace was instrumental in handing Sundowns victory.

His goals were classy shots and not out of the ordinary as he carried the day for the Brazilians.

Having carved a reputation as a Cup king, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro appears to be losing him in his quest to guide the Buccaneers to a first PSL title since 2012.

With his side now trailing behind Sundowns by nine points, it appears a tall order for them to catch up in the PSL title race.

Sundowns will now travel to Mbombela Stadium where they will meet TS Galaxy in their next PSL match on Tuesday.

Then next Saturday, Pirates host Baroka in a Nedbank Cup Round of 16 match at Orlando Stadium.