Pirates close in on Sundowns after 2-0 win over Durban City

Orlando Pirates moved to within four points of Betway Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns after beating Durban City 2-0 on Thursday.

The Buccaneers still have two matches in hand as they chase the league leaders, while the victory extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to 25 games.

Pirates were made to work for the win, with Durban City holding firm until the second half. The breakthrough finally came in the 58th minute when Lebone Seema headed Kabelo Kgosietsile’s delivery into the net.

It was Seema’s second goal of the season, following his strike in the 3-0 victory over Chippa United in August. The defender has now scored four goals for Pirates in all competitions.

The home side added a second 11 minutes later through Tshepang Moremi, who produced a composed finish after being played in by Simphiwe Masilela.

Moremi collected the ball on the edge of the penalty area before curling his shot beyond the goalkeeper for the decisive moment of the match.

The goal was a timely response from the 22-year-old after he was left out of Bafana Bafana’s latest squad by new coach Mosimane. Puso Dithejane of Chicago Fire and Tashreeq Morris of Sundowns were among the forwards selected instead.

Moremi was able to answer that disappointment on the pitch, with his finish highlighting the attacking quality he can provide for Pirates.

The match also marked a personal milestone for Masilela, who recorded the first assist of his professional career.

Pirates’ next fixture is away to Marumo Gallants on Sunday.