Orlando Pirates were defeated 1-0 by Sekhukhune United in their return to Betway Premiership action at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Pirates were in the driving seat for the majority of the first half, and did so from the first 15 minutes of play.
Thalente Mbatha was able to find space in the 17th minute and took a shot from long range, but his effort was well wide and off target.
Sekhukhune’s Keletso Makgalwa would try to threaten the Pirates defence on the wing, but the home team were well-organised to deal with the danger.
Towards the end of the half, Kabelo Dlamini took a free kick from a threatening position, forcing a save from Babina Noko keeper Renaldo Leaner.
The two sides went into the halftime break with nothing separating the two, but with the Buccaneers having been the better team after the first 45 minutes.
In-form defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi would also have a chance to score midway through the second half, but his shot lacked technique and went well over the crossbar despite him having a clear view on the goal.
The visitors began to come alive in the match, and their offensive efforts eventually paid off in the 58th minute as Tresor Yamba headed home from a well-taken corner kick by Makgalwa.
The home side were then left frustrated as they found themselves behind despite being the more dangerous team.
By the 70th minute, the home side was still hunting for the equaliser as they got their grip back on possession.
Babina Noko defended their lines well and Pirates were unable to really capitalise on any of their opportunities going forward.
Further adding to the home team’s woes, Nkosinathi Sibisi was shown red in the 85th minute after receiving a second yellow card, forcing the Buccaneers to finish off the game with 10 men.
Sekhukune held their ground well, to take home all three points in Soweto.
