Orlando Pirates thrash Kruger United in South African top-flight

Premiership defending champions Orlando Pirates strengthened their grip on top spot in the PSL standings after cruising to a commanding 4-0 victory over newcomers Kruger United at the Mbombela Stadium on Wednesday evening.

The Buccaneers produced another impressive performance to maintain their unbeaten start to the campaign and remain at the summit of the league table with 13 points from their opening four matches.

Orlando Pirates were in complete control for much of the encounter as they exposed the gap in experience between the defending champions and the newly promoted Kruger United side.

Gamphani Lungu opened the scoring for the Soweto giants before Biotumelo Radiopane added another to put the visitors firmly in control of proceedings.

Yanele Mbuthuma then capped off a memorable evening with a brilliant brace, taking Pirates’ tally to four goals and ensuring there would be no way back for the PSL newcomers.

Despite the chilly conditions in Nelspruit, Pirates showed plenty of attacking quality and clinical finishing as they continued their strong start to the defence of their Betway Premiership crown.

The emphatic result further underlines Pirates’ early intentions for the season, with the Buccaneers looking determined to retain the league title and establish an early advantage over their rivals.

For Kruger United, meanwhile, it was a difficult evening against one of the division’s most formidable sides. The newcomers struggled to contain Pirates’ attacking threat and will be hoping to quickly put the heavy defeat behind them as they continue their maiden campaign in South Africa’s top flight.

Orlando Pirates will take plenty of confidence from another dominant victory as they remain the team to beat in the early stages of the Betway Premiership season.