Radiopane leads Orlando Pirates back to winning ways against TS Galaxy

Orlando Pirates returned to winning ways in the Betway Premiership with a convincing 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy on Tuesday night.

Boitumelo Radiopane opened the scoring in the 18th minute, Tshepang Moremi added a second five minutes after half-time and Simphiwe Masilela completed the win with 13 minutes remaining.

The result extends Pirates’ unbeaten start to the league season, although the Buccaneers remain one point behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou handed Bulelani Segomoshe his debut in defence, while Oswin Appollis and Radiopane returned to the starting line-up following Saturday’s MTN8 final defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns.

Appollis’ inclusion came after some supporters questioned why he had started on the bench in the final, with Moremi preferred in Durban.

TS Galaxy also made a change on the touchline. Bernard Parker was absent from the bench, with Esau Mtsweni taking charge of first-team duties. The club did not explain Parker’s absence.

Radiopane showed the value of his recall when he put Pirates ahead after 18 minutes. He controlled a pass from Appollis before finding the net, taking his league tally to three goals this season.

Galaxy offered little threat to Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine during the opening period. The hosts continued to look for a second goal, but clear opportunities were limited around the penalty area before the interval.

Moremi was introduced at the start of the second half in place of Gamphani Lungu and made an immediate impact. The forward converted a cross from debutant Segomoshe to double Pirates’ advantage.

Galaxy created their first significant chance after the hour mark when striker Sedwyn George unleashed a powerful effort. Chaine was equal to it, making the save to preserve Pirates’ two-goal lead.

Pirates then added a third in the 77th minute. Masilela finished from close range to score his first goal of the campaign and put the result beyond doubt.

Orlando Pirates’ next five fixtures are away to African Stars, at home to African Stars, at home to Kaizer Chiefs, away to Siwelele FC and at home to Golden Arrows.

TS Galaxy will visit Polokwane City before hosting Durban City. They then travel to Stellenbosch FC, welcome Richards Bay and visit Kaizer Chiefs.