Orlando Pirates dropped points in the riveting title race with Mamelodi Sundowns after 1-1 draw against a spirited Siwelele in their Betway Premiership clash at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.
Both sides came into the tie in a good run of form, with the visitors, led by former Pirates captain Lehlohonolo Seema, suffering only one defeat in their last 10 games, albeit, including six draws.
Pirates showed the early impetus, as expected with Tshepang Moremi having been played in through on goal twice early on, but wasn’t able to profit from the opportunities.
Ricardo Goss was also in inspiring form, with three saves in the opening half, making sure his side remains in the game with a fighting chance as they looked to get something on the break.
And that they did, when Vincent Pule, another former Buccaneer, opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark, and as he he’s done on several occasions, refused the celebrate.
Moremi did eventually make up for his earlier efforts, when in the second half, when he was once again played in through the lines, showing his pace and power before nonchalantly slotting the ball beyond the onrushing Goss.
But as Pirates looked to push forward for the winner, it wasn’t to be as Seema’s troops once again flexed their defensive solidity that’s been on display since the turn of the year – as they conceded just one goal in five league games… managed to hold on for a valuable point. It moved them into 11th place ahead of Richards Bay – who take on AmaZulu in the late kickoff.
Meanwhile Pirates remain top by one point ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns – who will now have a chance to move top when they take on Marumo Gallants on Tuesday evening at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
