Patrick Maswanganyi and Tshegofatso Mabasa shine as Orlando Pirates reduce Mamelodi Sundowns' PSL lead with Golden Arrows win ahead of Soweto Derby clash against Kaizer Chiefs in Nedbank Cup final

Orlando Pirates managed to register back-to-back Premier Soccer League victories after beating Golden Arrows 2-1 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday.

Goals from Patrick Maswanganyi and Tshegofatso Mabasa handed Bucs the win, while Siyanda Mthanti's goal denied the Soweto giants a clean sheet.

Meanwhile, Arrows failed to break the deadlock in the 11th minute with one of their most open chances. The home side won a corner, and Nhlanhla Zwane was in the right position to score but ended up sending his free header out. Zwane at that point was unmarked as Pirates' players were caught off guard and were lucky not to concede.

Pirates' defense was constantly called into action to deal with dangers posed by Arrows. Particularly, Mbekezeli Mbokazi made a good block to deny Siyanda Mthanti, who was in a position to score for the home side in the 24th minute.

Just past the half-hour mark, Bucs won corners in quick succession but were unable to capitalise on those opportunities. In the 36th minute, Tapelo Xoki had an opportunity to break the deadlock but sent his effort wide.

Finally, the Sea Robbers scored the opener in the 51st minute when Maswanganyi found the back of the net. Kabelo Dlamini spotted Maswanganyi, who rounded onrushing Arrows' goalkeeper Edward Maova to slot home.

The lead did not last long, as Arrows fought back and equalised in the 59th minute through Mthanti.

The Sea Robbers regained their lead in the 72nd minute through Mabasa, a second-half substitute, with Mbokazi providing the assist.

Notably, Karim Kimvundi, who was among the beneficiaries of changes made by coach Jose Riveiro, was among the outstanding players.

Meanwhile, Abafana Bes'thende are 14th with just 26 points from 24 games, while Pirates, second on the log, took their points tally to 52.

The gap between Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns is now nine points, and Bucs have a game in hand.

Maswanganyi scored a goal that is set to silence his critics for now. He was impressive in midfield, and the goal just crowned his performance in the game.

The 27-year-old showed brilliance that could convince his coaches that he deserves regular starts going forward.

Pressure on coach Manqoba Mngqithi is set to increase as Abafana Bes'thende failed to win and boost their PSL survival chances.

Only three points separate them from bottom-placed Cape Town City, and a win would have seen them widen that gap. The loss also means their top eight chances have been dealt a major blow.

Pirates will now shift focus to their Nedbank Cup defence where they are scheduled to face Kaizer Chiefs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 10.

Arrows are set to play against Richards Bay on May in a PSL match at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium.