Pirates take half-time lead over TS Galaxy in Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates went into the break 1-0 ahead of TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday evening, with Boitumelo Radiopane’s goal giving the hosts an advantage after a lively opening period.

The Buccaneers were seeking an immediate response following their disappointment in the MTN8 final. Victory would also keep their early title ambitions on track, while TS Galaxy arrived needing points after suffering two successive home defeats.

Pirates made the brighter start and opened the scoring during the first quarter of the match. A fluent move developed through midfield before Oswin Appollis reached the far side and cut the ball back into the area.

Radiopane was in the right position to meet the delivery and finished into an unguarded net, putting Orlando Pirates in front.

TS Galaxy attempted to respond and came close when Victor Letsoalo found space on the far side. The opportunity followed a precise pass from the middle by Mlungisi Mbunjana, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine intervened at the right moment to prevent the equaliser.

Pirates continued to look for a second goal as the half progressed, although TS Galaxy remained competitive. The visitors also threatened late in the opening 45 minutes, with Sedwyn George causing problems, but they could not find a way past Chaine.

Confirmed line-ups

Orlando Pirates: Chaine, Sibisi, Seema, Sigomoshe, Ndaba, Mokobodi, Selepe, Masilela, Lungu, Appollis, Radiopane

Substitutes: Dladla, Zulu, Rapoo, Mthiyane, Dansin, Padime, Kgositsile, Moremi, Makgopa

TS Galaxy: Tape, Mncwango, Mhlongo, Mathebula, Mbunjana, Zindoga, Mvelase, Kakora, Xulu, George, Letsoalo

Substitutes: Maseti, Ngobeni, Mahlangu, Fisher, Nkosi, Rantoa, Williams, Zandamela, Mahlambi