Radiopane leads Orlando Pirates to second win over Sekhukhune in four days

Orlando Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United 2-0 to make it two wins against Babina Noko in four days, with Tshegofatso Radiopane scoring once and setting up the second goal in a controlled league performance.

The Buccaneers had beaten Sekhukhune 1-0 in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final on Saturday. They followed that result with another victory at the same venue, maintaining their unbeaten start to the league campaign.

Radiopane was given his first start of the season because several of Pirates’ regular attacking options were unavailable. The 24-year-old responded by breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute.

After receiving a pass from Kamogelo Sebelebele, Radiopane turned inside the Sekhukhune penalty area before sending a low finish into the bottom corner from a tight angle.

The hosts had opportunities to respond, although they struggled to produce a sustained threat in front of goal. Bradley Mojela came close before half-time, while Simon Ramabu headed narrowly wide early in the second half.

Pirates continued to control much of the contest, however, and extended their lead in the 62nd minute.

A mistake by Sekhukhune defender Tsepo Matsimbi gave Radiopane the chance to run through on goal. Rather than attempt to finish himself, the forward kept his composure and squared the ball for Oswin Appollis, who completed the move by shooting into an unguarded net.

Appollis was substituted before the final whistle as head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou managed his minutes with Saturday’s MTN8 semi-final second leg in mind. The forward has been carefully handled since returning from Bafana Bafana duty at the World Cup.

The result leaves Pirates with 10 points from their opening four league matches. They have won three of those games and drawn one, while also recording another clean sheet.

Sekhukhune enjoyed spells of possession but were unable to turn that control into enough clear-cut chances to trouble Pirates consistently.

The teams will meet again on Saturday at the same venue for the decisive second leg of their MTN8 semi-final. Pirates take a 1-0 advantage into the match and will be aiming to finish the job and reach the final.

The winners of the tie will face either Golden Arrows or Mamelodi Sundowns in the final.