POLOKWANE – Polokwane City FC hosted Orlando Pirates at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium last Wednesday in a Betway Premiership encounter.

The visitors, known as the Buccaneers, held their nerve to secure a 2–1 victory over the hosts.

The win keeps Pirates at the top of the log after winning 14 of their 19 matches so far this season.

Rain greeted both teams at kick-off, forcing players to quickly adapt to the slippery conditions.

The first half was largely dominated by the Soweto giants, but Rise and Shine held firm, resulting in a goalless opening half.

Early in the match, Evidence Makgopa went one-on-one with City goalkeeper Lindokuhle Mathebula, who produced an excellent save just six minutes into the game.

Drama unfolded late in the first half when the Buccaneers were initially awarded a penalty after the referee believed there had been a handball when a header from Makgopa was cleared off the line.

After discussions among the officials, referee Luxolo Badi overturned the decision and cancelled the penalty just before halftime.

The second half produced more excitement. Seven minutes after the restart, Relebohile Mofokeng broke the deadlock for Pirates with a header.

City pushed hard for an equaliser and eventually found one in the 86th minute through Bonginkosi Dlamini.

However, the celebrations were short-lived as Patrick Maswanganyi restored the Buccaneers’ lead in the 90th minute to seal the victory.

Pirates remain top of the table, holding a goal-difference advantage over Mamelodi Sundowns in second place.

City sit in seventh position and will next face Sekhukhune United on Saturday at the new Peter Mokaba Stadium.