Pirates’ title hopes dented by late draw at Richards Bay

By Levy Masiteng

Orlando Pirates suffered a major setback in their Betway Premiership title chase after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Richards Bay FC at Umhlathuze Sports Stadium on Friday night.

The Mighty Buccaneers, who began the match one point behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, needed a win to keep their title hopes firmly in their own hands. Instead, they were held despite dominating large spells.

Richards Bay took an early lead through Thulani Gumede in the 10th minute.

Pirates responded after the break when Oswin Appollis equalised in the 52nd minute to swing momentum.

However, Lindokuhle Zikhali restored the hosts’ advantage seven minutes later, leaving Pirates chasing the game.

Lebone Seema rescued a point deep into stoppage time, scoring in the 90+2 minute to level matters.

The result leaves Pirates on 55 points from 24 matches, still one behind Sundowns, who are in Tunisia for a CAF Champions League