Orlando Pirates were thoroughly deserving of their 3-1 triumph in Saturday’s Premiership showdown against Kaizer Chiefs, despite missing several golden opportunities to extend their lead.
The match kicked off with an intense tactical tussle during the first 20 minutes – Pirates adopted a strategic approach by sitting back and capitalising on counter-attacks, while Chiefs dominated possession.
Chiefs relied heavily on crosses from Philani Zulu and Ramahlwe Mphahlele, but their deliveries from wide areas often lacked precision.
In the 12th minute, striker Ryan Moon headed a promising chance just wide from an excellent cross by the dynamic Siphiwe Tshabalala on the right flank.
However, the breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Pirates took the lead. Following a misdirected clearance by Willard Katsande straight into the box, Lorch skilfully evaded two defenders and fired a powerful shot past Itumeleng Khune into the far corner.
The Glamour Boys swiftly responded, with Castro levelling in the 28th minute thanks to a brilliant free-kick delivery from Tshabalala on the left side.
Moments before the break, Bernard Morrison had a golden chance to reclaim the lead but was denied by Khune after controlling the ball perfectly inside the box.
Just after the break, substitute Memela made an immediate impact, scoring following a stunning run by Musa Nyatama on the left wing. Memela beautifully curled the ball beyond Khune at the near post, sending Pirates ahead once again.
For the next 20 minutes, Pirates showcased dominance, constantly threatening to increase their lead.
Chiefs managed a saved header from Castro but struggled to maintain offensive pressure, with Pirates controlling the pace and exploiting swift counter-attacks.
Justin Shonga forced a brilliant save from Khune with a close-range header, and Memela’s free-kick rattled the post after deflecting off the wall.
As the game progressed, Chiefs began improving their ball movement but failed to create real chances in the final third.
Memela sealed his brace in the 74th minute, assisted perfectly by Shonga’s precise pass from the left.
Chiefs leaned on half-chances late on, while Pirates substitute Augustine Mulenga crafted a near hat-trick opportunity for Memela after a fast break, only for Khune to produce a superb save.
© TEAMtalk Media
