AmaZulu fight back to hold Orlando Pirates at half-time

Orlando Pirates were held to a 1-1 draw by AmaZulu at half-time in their Betway Premiership meeting on Tuesday evening, despite creating several opportunities to extend their early lead.

The reigning champions made the stronger start and opened the scoring in the sixth minute after a ball over the top caused problems for AmaZulu goalkeeper Faveur Kouassi. Tshepang Moremi reacted quickest, moving inside before finishing the loose ball to put the Buccaneers ahead.

Pirates had the opportunity to double their advantage before the 20-minute mark. Yanela Mbuthuma found space close to goal after an error by the hosts, but his effort was kept out when Riaan Hanamub recovered in time to clear the ball off the goal-line.

The visitors continued to control much of the first half and came close again after the half-hour mark. A pass through the middle released Ghampani Lungu behind the AmaZulu defence, but the Zambia international was unable to find the target and fired wide.

Those missed chances proved costly for Pirates just before the interval. Kamogelo Sebelebele brought down Mlondi Mbanjwa inside the area, prompting the referee to award AmaZulu a penalty.

Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya took responsibility from the spot and converted to bring Usuthu level on the stroke of half-time.

Pirates had been looking to maintain the momentum from their promising start to the season after Saturday’s hard-fought victory over Durban City in the MTN8. AmaZulu, meanwhile, were seeking a response after being eliminated from the same competition by Sekhukhune United.

The second half will determine whether Pirates can turn their first-half pressure into a winning result or whether AmaZulu can complete their recovery and claim all three points.

AmaZulu started with Faveur Kouassi in goal, behind a defence of Radebe, Riaan Hanamub, Mthethwa and Fielies. Mdaka, Hlangabeza and Zikhali formed the midfield, with Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya, Maqokolo and Mlondi Mbanjwa leading the attack.

AmaZulu’s substitutes were Mzimela, Phillips, Bern, Mhlongo, Moralo, Mokoena, Sithole, Thabede and Mashigo.

Orlando Pirates named Sipho Chaine as goalkeeper, with Kamogelo Sebelebele, Seema, Sibisi and Ndaba in defence. Dansin and Nduli operated in midfield, while Ghampani Lungu, Maswanganyi, Tshepang Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma made up the attacking line.

The Pirates substitutes were Dladla, Kgositsile, Masilela, Zulu, Mokobodi, Mthiyane, Radiopane, Appollis and Hotto.