Orlando Pirates recover from slow start to sweep aside Kruger United

Orlando Pirates overcame a difficult first half to beat PSL newcomers Kruger United and maintain their unbeaten start to the league season.

The defending champions now have four wins and one draw from their opening five matches. The result leaves the Buccaneers three points clear of Mamelodi Sundowns, who face Milford FC on Wednesday.

Pirates made the ideal start at the first opportunity. They were awarded a penalty in the third minute after winger Kamogelo Sebelebele was fouled inside the area.

Ghampani Lungu took responsibility from 12 yards and made no mistake, giving the home side an early advantage.

That opener did not discourage Kruger, however. The newly promoted side responded with confidence and created several promising chances against the reigning champions.

Aphiwe Mphote came close to an equaliser when he rose to meet a cross, but his header sailed over the crossbar. The striker then saw another attempt cleared off the line by Orlando Pirates defender S’bangani Zulu.

Kruger’s clearest opportunity fell to Boitumelo Malatji. Left unmarked at the far post, Malatji appeared to have a good chance to bring his side level, but his close-range effort struck the woodwork before Pirates managed to clear the danger.

Those missed opportunities proved costly for Kruger as Pirates took control after the interval.

The Soweto club’s attacking players became increasingly influential in the second half, allowing the champions to turn a narrow lead into a decisive victory.

Boitumelo Radiopane doubled Pirates’ advantage after beating the offside trap and calmly finishing the move.

Kruger were unable to recover, and substitute Yanela Mbuthuma completed his brace to round off a comprehensive win for the Buccaneers.

The result means Pirates continue to set the early pace in the league, with their record of four victories and one draw keeping them ahead of Sundowns. Mamelodi Sundowns will have the opportunity to close the gap when they meet Milford FC on Wednesday.

For Kruger United, the defeat will be particularly frustrating after a first-half display in which they threatened to punish the champions. They created enough opportunities to equalise, but Mphote failed to convert his chances and Malatji’s effort struck the post.

Pirates, by contrast, showed the strength of their squad after a subdued opening period. They survived Kruger’s pressure, improved after half-time and used their attacking quality to secure a victory that keeps their unbeaten league run intact.