Orlando Pirates have sent an early warning to their rivals in the Betway Premiership. They cruised g to a commanding 4-0 victory over newly promoted Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday evening.
The result sees the Buccaneers move to 13 points at the top of the standings. They leave Mamelodi Sundowns in second place on 10 points, while Kaizer Chiefs sit third with eight points.
GAMPHANI LUNGU SETS ORLANDO PIRATES ON THEIR WAY
More importantly for Bucs, the emphatic victory extends their unbeaten start and underlines their attacking strength.
Orlando Pirates needed just three minutes to break the deadlock after they were awarded a penalty following an early attacking move. Gamphani Lungu stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give the visitors an ideal start.
The Buccaneers controlled much of the opening half despite Kruger United attempting to make the contest difficult and physical. Pirates went into the interval with their 1-0 advantage intact, but the second half would prove a completely different story.
Boitumelo Radiopane doubled the lead in the 54th minute after Pirates produced a sweeping attacking move that opened up the hosts’ defence. The goal gave the visitors further confidence as they began to find increasing space in the final third.
THE BUCCANEERS FINISH THE JOB
The introduction of Yanela Mbuthuma proved decisive for Orlando Pirates as the substitute put the game beyond doubt with two late goals.
Mbuthuma made it 3-0 in the 79th minute with a composed finish before completing his brace in the second minute of stoppage time. His 92nd-minute strike put the finishing touch on a ruthless 4-0 away victory.
Also read: Sekhukhune part ways with former Chiefs coach after FIVE matches
For Orlando Pirates, the result is another significant step in their title defence. The Buccaneers now have 13 points from their opening matches, with Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs already beginning to chase the early league leaders.
For Kruger United, however, the top-flight adjustment remains a difficult one. The newly promoted side are still searching for their first Betway Premiership victory, while Orlando Pirates leave Mbombela with another statement that they intend to remain at the summit.
