Orlando Pirates Suffer Significant Setback in Pursuit of Betway Premiership Glory

Mamelodi Sundowns find themselves in a stronger position in the title race, thanks to the points dropped by Pirates, who conceded two spectacular long-range goals but managed to salvage a point late in the match.

Home side takes the lead

Richards Bay struck first in the 11th minute with a stunning effort that could easily be a contender for goal of the season.

Simphiwe Mcineka redirected the ball to Thulani Gumede from about 25 yards out, and his volley flew into the top corner, leaving Sipho Chaine in goal for the Pirates with no chance.

This goal marks another achievement for Gumede, who scored the winner when Richards Bay overcame Kaizer Chiefs last month. It was only the fifth goal of his Betway Premiership career, but he may never score a more breathtaking one.

Equalising hero

Pirates found their equaliser six minutes into the second half, courtesy of none other than Oswin Appollis.

Admittedly, he had little difficulty as he expertly controlled a cross from Relebohile Mofokeng with a brilliant first touch, and with no defenders in sight, he made no mistake in firing the ball into the net from six yards out.

This marked Appollis’ sixth goal in his last nine matches for club and country, closely following his brace against Lamontville Golden Arrows earlier in the week. A mention also goes to Mofokeng, who has now contributed to 15 goals since January (nine goals, six assists) and is displaying excellent form.

Richards Bay retakes the lead

However, Pirates’ joy was short-lived as Richards Bay regained the lead with another stunning long-range goal.

Lundi Mahala lost control on the edge of the box, but the ball kindly fell to Lindokuhle Zikhali, who drilled it low past Chaine from 25 yards out.

It’s unusual for Chaine to be beaten from such distance, and while he came closer this time, Pirates conceded twice in a league match for the third time this season.

Before this match, they had conceded just nine goals over 23 league games, but found themselves on the receiving end of two extraordinary strikes. This was also Zikhali’s first goal since September when he last scored against Magesi FC, making it just the fourth of his entire career.

Last-minute equaliser

It seemed Pirates were on course for a defeat, but once again, a stunning goal from outside the area provided the late drama.

Lebone Seema seized the ball from 35 yards out and after a couple of touches, he unleashed a phenomenal shot that soared into the corner of the net.

This was a masterful effort and underscored his ability to score from long range.

Moreover, it spared Pirates from suffering their first-ever defeat to Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal.

Current standings

While not a devastating blow to their title hopes, Pirates now find themselves relying on other teams to assist them significantly, and perhaps more than once, if they’re to challenge Sundowns for the crown.

The Brazilians lead the league with 56 points and a goal difference of +30, while Pirates trail closely behind with 55 points and a +36 difference but have now played one game more.

Given Sundowns’ current form in the league, it appears unlikely that they will drop enough points to allow Pirates to catch up, but hope remains.