Orlando Pirates
By Sello Masilo
Orlando Pirates delivered a commanding performance, overwhelming Marumo Gallants with an 8-1 victory in a Betway Premiership match at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday afternoon. This triumph matches the Premier Soccer League (PSL) record for the largest margin of victory since the league’s inception in 1996.
Match Overview
The Buccaneers showcased their attacking prowess from the outset, capitalising on a defensive mishap to secure an early lead. Despite a brief resurgence from Gallants, Pirates dominated the second half, adding seven goals to their tally. This emphatic win keeps Pirates in second place on the league table, three points adrift of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
First Half
The match commenced under overcast skies, with a rain-soaked pitch influencing play. In the opening minute, Deon Hotto delivered a cross from the left flank, which was inadvertently deflected into the Gallants’ net by defender Kenneth Nthatheni, granting Pirates an immediate advantage.
Gallants responded with determination and found an equaliser in the 23rd minute. Monde Mphambaniso’s incisive pass was misjudged by Pirates’ defender Nkosinathi Sibisi, allowing Frank Mhango to slot the ball past goalkeeper Sipho Chaine. The teams entered the halftime break deadlocked at 1-1.
Second Half
The second half witnessed a revitalised Pirates side asserting their dominance. Just two minutes after the restart, Tshegofatso Mabasa restored the lead for the hosts with a well-placed shot. Mabasa continued to torment the Gallants’ defence, securing his brace in the 53rd minute and completing his hat-trick by the 64th minute, bringing the score to 5-1.
Deano Van Rooyen added to Gallants’ woes by netting his debut goal for Pirates in the 59th minute. Midfielder Thalente Mbatha further extended the lead with a spectacular long-range effort in the 70th minute and followed up with a low-driven shot in the 82nd minute, making it 7-1.
In the closing stages, Gallants’ defensive frailties were exposed once more. A foul on Mofokeng inside the penalty area in the 89th minute led to a spot-kick, which substitute Boitumelo Radiopane converted with composure, sealing the 8-1 victory.
Historical Context
This victory equals the PSL record for the largest winning margin, a feat previously achieved by Mamelodi Sundowns in their 8-1 triumph over Powerlines FC in the 2012 Nedbank Cup. For Orlando Pirates, this result stands as one of their most significant victories in the club’s history, surpassing their previous record 7-1 win against Golden Arrows in April 2024. 
Implications for the League Standings
Despite the resounding win, Orlando Pirates remain in second place on the Betway Premiership table with 21 points from eight matches, trailing Mamelodi Sundowns by three points. The Buccaneers will look to maintain their momentum as they prepare to face Magesi FC away on Sunday in their final fixture of the year.
Marumo Gallants, enduring their heaviest defeat in the league, find themselves in 12th position with 10 points from nine matches. They will aim to rebound when they meet Sekhukhune United on Saturday.
Post-Match Reactions
Pirates’ head coach, José Riveiro, expressed immense satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “The boys executed our game plan to perfection. This victory is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”
Tshegofatso Mabasa, who earned the Man of the Match accolade for his hat-trick, commented, “I’m delighted to contribute to the team’s success. We approached this game with a winning mentality, and the results speak for themselves.”
In contrast, Gallants’ coach, lamented his team’s defensive lapses, noting, “We were outplayed, especially in the second half. It’s a tough lesson, and we need to regroup and address our shortcomings before the next match.”
Looking Ahead
Orlando Pirates will aim to close the year on a high note as they travel to face Magesi FC on Sunday. A victory could potentially narrow the gap at the top of the table, depending on other results.
Marumo Gallants, seeking redemption, will host Sekhukhune United on Saturday. A positive result is crucial for them to steer clear of the relegation zone and restore confidence within the squad.
Match Statistics
• Goals:
• Orlando Pirates:
• Kenneth Nthatheni (own goal) – 1st minute
• Tshegofatso Mabasa – 47th, 53rd, 64th minutes
• Deano Van Rooyen – 59th minute
• Thalente Mbatha – 70th, 82nd minutes
• Boitumelo Radiopane (penalty) – 89th minute
• Marumo Gallants:
• Frank Mhango – 23rd minute
• Substitutions:
• Orlando Pirates:
• Hotto replaced by Mako – 72nd minute
• Nkota replaced by Gilberto – 72nd minute
• Mabasa replaced by Radiopane – 72nd minute
• Makhaula replaced by Tshobeni – 77th minute
• Sesane replaced by Xoli – 84th minute
• Marumo Gallants:
• Manaka replaced by Sithole – 58th minute
• Mphambaniso replaced by Shai – 58th minute
• Nange replaced by Mokobodi – 85th
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