Orlando Pirates secured a resounding 8-1 victory against Marumo Gallants in a Betway Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday, setting themselves up for a festive season to remember.
The first half saw both teams enter the break tied at 1-1, with little indication of the goal avalanche that was to follow.
Magical Performance by Mabasa
Tshegofatso Mabasa stole the show with a remarkable performance, scoring two crucial goals within the first few minutes of the second half. This ignited a scoring spree for the Buccaneers, who went on to net a total of six goals in just 35 minutes.
The game kicked off in spectacular fashion for Pirates, as Kenneth Nthatheni deflected Deon Hotto’s cross into the net within the first minute. However, former Pirate Gabadinho Mhango equalized for Gallants with a strike in the 23rd minute.
Mabasa, making his first league start for Pirates in nearly three months, displayed his prowess by putting his team back in the lead early in the second half and adding another goal just six minutes later.
Deano Van Rooyen also got on the scoresheet with his first goal for Pirates since joining from Stellenbosch this season, while Mbatha completed a hat-trick in just 17 minutes.
Stunning Strikes by Mbatha
Midfielder Thalente Mbatha showcased his skill with two impressive long-range goals, including a spectacular screamer. Boitumelo Radiiopane sealed Gallants’ misery with a penalty.
The emphatic victory keeps Pirates three points behind Mamelodi Sundowns, who secured a 1-0 win over AmaZulu on the same day. Despite the gap, Pirates have a game in hand and their superior goal difference will undoubtedly work in their favor.
Overall, the match was a testament to Pirates’ attacking prowess and solidifies their position as one of the top contenders in the Betway Premiership.
