Orlando Pirates beat Milford to reach Carling Knockout quarter-finals

Orlando Pirates began their defence of the Carling Knockout in emphatic fashion, beating Milford 3-0 at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday to reach the quarter-finals.

Tshepang Moremi scored twice, while Thapelo Mokobodi added the other goal as the Buccaneers maintained their impressive scoring form ahead of their Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs.

Pirates have now scored seven goals in their past two matches without conceding. Their latest victory also extended a commanding run of form at the start of their cup campaign.

The match was a repeat of the league meeting between the sides at the same venue earlier this season, when Pirates won 2-0.

Milford have made a strong start to their debut season and arrived at Orlando Stadium unbeaten in four matches after a 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows at the weekend. Only Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns had beaten them this season.

However, the hosts applied intense pressure from the opening stages and Milford struggled to cope, regularly giving possession away in dangerous areas.

Pirates took the lead in the 15th minute. Moremi released Mokobodi through on goal with a well-timed pass, and the forward calmly placed the ball beyond goalkeeper Siphamandla Hleza to score his second goal for the club.

Milford gradually settled and began to create more pressure, but Pirates’ defence dealt with the threat effectively.

The home side doubled their advantage 10 minutes before half-time. Moremi beat the offside trap, went around Hleza and finished from a tight angle to put Pirates firmly in control.

Moremi completed his brace before the interval, giving the Buccaneers a three-goal lead and ending any realistic prospect of a Milford comeback.

Pirates will now face Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto derby with confidence high after another convincing performance in front of goal.

Their defensive record will also provide encouragement: Pirates have conceded only once in the league this season.