- Saleng scored the first goal via a lovely backheel
- The forward caught the Swallows keeper by surprise
- Winger has now scored 12 goals in all competitions
WHAT HAPPENED? A lovely interchange between Terrence Dzvukamanja and Kabelo Dlamini saw the latter’s cutback find Saleng unmarked in the box and the winger caught Swallows goalkeeper Thakasani Mbanjwa by surprise when he scored with a backheel.
Mbanjwa had hoped that Saleng would turn on his stronger left foot but the forward showed confidence and great feet to score first-time after just eight minutes.
Terrence Dzvukamanja then made it 2-0 two minutes after the break before Saleng was on target again as Pirates took a 3-1 lead after 60 minutes.
Mthokozisi Shwabule pulled one back for Swallows after which the Pirates winger completed his hat-trick in time added on, when hie finished off a Kermit Erasmus pass, against the run of play.
Saleng took his tally in the league to eight, just one behind the PSL leading scorers Bradley Grobler of SuperSport United and Mamelodi Sundowns’ Peter Shalulile, while he has now scored 12 in all competitions this season.
THE BIGGER PITCURE: It was another statement performance from Saleng which enhanced his reputation and puts him in a good position to contest for the PSL Player of the Year Award.
Victory saw Pirates return to winning ways following their derby loss to Kaizer Chiefs last weekend and they are now third on the log on 34 points, two behind second-placed SuperSport, who occupy the final Caf Champions League qualification spot.
WHAT’S NEXT? Pirates will head into next Saturday’s Nedbank Cup Round of 16 match against Venda Football Academy on confidence after the huge win.