The Orlando Pirates started their match against the Gallants with a bang on Tuesday evening at Orlando Stadium. In the opening moments, a cross from Deon Hotto was accidentally deflected into the Gallants’ net, giving the Buccaneers an early 1-0 lead.
However, just minutes into the game, a storm caused a temporary halt in play due to dangerous weather conditions. The match was paused for over 35 minutes as officials monitored the situation, but eventually, the action resumed with the Pirates still in the lead.
In the 10th minute, Relebohile Mofokeng came close to scoring a second goal for the Buccaneers, but his goal was ruled offside. The match took a turn when Gabadinho Mhango managed to level the score for the Gallants at 1-1 in the 23rd minute.
After a thrilling first half, both teams went into the break with the score tied. However, the Pirates returned to the field ready to dominate. Just two minutes into the second half, Tshegofatso Mabasa put the Buccaneers back in front, making it 2-1.
The goals continued to flood in for Orlando Pirates. Mabasa scored again in the 53rd minute, assisted by Deano Van Rooyen, who later added his own goal to the tally. Talent Mbatha also shined by scoring two goals in the match, while Tshegofatso Mabasa impressively completed a hat-trick with three goals.
The scoring frenzy wasn’t over yet: Botumelo Radiopane converted a penalty after Mofokeng was fouled inside the box, bringing the final score to a stunning 8-1 in favor of Orlando Pirates. Tshegofatso Mabasa was named, Man of the match.
