Celebration for a win and seven unbeaten games for the Buccaneers. Image : Orlando Pirates FC shared via Facebook
(The Post News)- Evidence Makgopa’s goal helped the Orlando Pirates defeat Richards Bay 1-0 at Orlando Stadium, setting a new club record with seven straight league victories.Â
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It was the Buccaneers’ 100th game under head coach Jose Riveiro, who led the Soweto giants to victory. Although they didn’t pose much of a threat to the Pirates’ goal, the visitors had the stronger start to the match and were dangerous with their few set pieces.
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After 26 minutes, however, the home team seized the lead when goalie Ian Otieno mishandled a long-range effort from Thabiso Monyane, and Makgopa was there to tap it in. Ten minutes prior to halftime, Monyane had another attempt from outside the box, but Otieno made a good save, nearly doubling the Pirates’ lead.
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The hosts also missed their last chance to score in the first half when Thabiso Sesane headed a corner just inches wide. As the Buccaneers maintained their hold on the game, Otieno was called upon once more to stop Mohau Nkota from scoring with a long-range, left-footed attempt.
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Although they rarely put home goalie Sipho Chaine to the test, Richards Bay was never a threat moving forward and kept the score low with a strong defense. The victory puts the Orlando Pirates six points ahead of the Mamelodi Sundowns, who play Polokwane City later today. The visitors, who have lost four of their last seven league games, are still in 12th place.
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