By Marcus Moloko
Images by Eddie Mtsweni
Orlando Pirates battled to the summit of the Betway Premiership table after thrashing Kaizer Chiefs 3 – 0 in a one-sided Soweto Derby at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Buccaneers wasted no time asserting dominance in the clash. In the 12 th minute, Tshepang Moremi’s long-range strike deflected off Flavio Da Silva and wrong-footed Bruce Bvuma, handing Pirates the opener.
Chiefs struggled to respond, with Glody Lilepo and Pule Mmodi unable to penetrate down the flanks and Da Silva isolated in attack.
Pirates doubled their lead in the 38th minute when Oswin Appollis broke free down the left side of the box and calmly slotted into the far corner for his third league goal of the campaign.
Pirates grabbed their third goal in the 78th minute. Moremi delivered a precise cross for Evidence Makgopa to head past Bvuma from close range, extinguishing any hopes of a Chiefs comeback.
Chiefs nearly found a consolation when substitute Wandile Duba’s effort was cleared off the line, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine ensured another clean sheet for the Buccaneers.
The 3 – 0 victory not only secured bragging rights for Pirates in the Soweto Derby but also propelled them to the top of the Premiership standings.
