ORLANDO PIRATES BACK ON TOP!

Orlando Pirates returned to the top of the Betway Premiership standings after grinding out a 2–0 victory over Richards Bay FC at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.

Goals from Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa sealed the important win for the Buccaneers, ensuring they collected maximum points as the title race enters its decisive stages.

Pirates broke the deadlock just before the half-hour mark when Kamogelo Sebelebele delivered a low cutback from the right that found Appollis, who cleverly lost his marker before calmly turning the ball into the back of the net.

The home side doubled their advantage late in the match after being awarded a penalty moments before the final whistle.

Substitute Tshepang Moremi was brought down inside the box by Richards Bay’s Nashixwa Tuli, prompting the referee to point to the spot.

Makgopa stepped up and confidently sent goalkeeper Ian Otieno the wrong way to secure the victory.

Pirates started the match brightly and created the better chances early on.

Midfielder Thalente Mbatha forced Otieno into a save with a powerful long-range strike inside the opening minutes, while Deon Hotto also tested the Richards Bay keeper with a dangerous free kick from outside the penalty area.

Richards Bay had their own opportunity from a set piece when Moses Mthembu fired at goal, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine reacted well to keep the visitors at bay.

Despite controlling much of the game, Pirates struggled to convert several chances before eventually extending their lead late on.

The result sees the Soweto giants reclaim top spot in the standings with the season entering its final stretch, while Richards Bay were left empty-handed after a determined but ultimately unsuccessful effort to salvage a point.