Orlando Pirates player ratings as Soweto giants edge Bloemfontein Celtic

A superb performance from Ghana's finest goalkeeper. 

Ofori made two brilliant saves to deny Victor Letsoalo and Lucky Baloyi after the Bucs defence was exposed and he also dealt very well with aerial balls. 

Solid display by the hard-working utility player in the right-back position

Ndlovu had a good game attacking wise and he fired the first shot on target for Pirates and he also went about his defensive duties diligently.

Showed why he is now Pirates' first-choice left-back.

Mako stood his ground against a vibrant Celtic attack and he also contributed to the attack as he nearly scored in the closing stages of the game.

A quiet evening for the Bafana Bafana captain at the heart of the Bucs defence.

Hlatshwayo did not make any spectacular contributions and he went about his business calmly, particularly after striker Ndumiso Mabena was red-carded in the first half. 

Showed his leadership qualities as he orchestrated the Pirates defence at times.

However, Jele was caught out of position twice when Letsoalo and Baloyi found themselves in one-on-one situations with Ofori, who was able to deny the visitors on both occasions. 

Ensured that the Soweto giants dominated the midfield battle. 

Motshwari showed great energy levels, covering lots of ground and winning the ball back for his Pirates teammates.

Kept play ticking at the centre of the park for the Buccaneers.

Mntambo fetched balls from midfield and played forward passes, especially in the second half when Bucs were looking dangerous in the final third. 

Replaced Thabang Monare in the starting line-up and he failed to impress.

Dlamini could not make a telling contribution for the Soweto giants and he was replaced by Azola Tshobeni. 

Oozed with quality just behind the front three.

Makaringe pulled off some really easy-on-the-eye flicks and turns to unsettle the Celtic defence and he was able to showcase his goalscoring instincts by netting a brilliant solo goal. 

Named Man of the Match.

Tried to score with a fantastic acrobatic kick in the first-half, but that was pretty much it.

Hotto's electric pace and attacking flair were nowhere to be seen and he was replaced by Tshegofatso Mabasa.

A threat from the left wing, Pule well with Makaringe and even laid some nice crosses.

Mzwanele Mahashe had a torrid evening dealing with Pule, who found himself in promising positions, but he could not take his chances. 

Came on in the 75h minute and he caught the eye with some impressive turns and touches in the midfield, but he was unable to create chances of note for Bucs.

Not enough time to mark as he came on in the 88th minute. 

Not much time to impact the game after coming on with two minutes left.