Orlando Pirates had a tough time on the road, falling 2-0 to Marumo Gallants in Saturday’s Betway Premiership match at the Free State Stadium.
The loss turned out to be a major setback for the Buccaneers, as it widened the gap between them and the top spot on the league table.
For Marumo Gallants, the victory was vital in their battle to avoid relegation, and they managed to secure three much-needed points.
Early Misses and an Unexpected Breakthrough
The match began with Orlando Pirates looking to dominate, sending a few early shots towards Marumo Gallants’ goal within the first 10 minutes.
Players like Relebohile Mofokeng and Bandile Shandu had their chances, but neither was able to find the back of the net.
Then, against the run of play, Marumo Gallants struck.
A well-executed set piece saw former Pirates forward Gabadinho Mhango pounce from close range to put his team 1-0 up in the 15th minute.
This early setback seemed to throw Orlando Pirates off balance, and they struggled to regain momentum for the rest of the first half.
Pirates’ Missed Opportunities and Gallants’ Close Calls
The first half wasn’t without its chances for Pirates. Nine minutes before the break, Kabelo Dlamini delivered a ball into the box that Tshegofatso Mabasa flicked across goal.
Tapelo Xoki was just inches away from making contact and turning it into an equalizer.
Gallants also had a chance to double their lead before halftime, but Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine came up with a crucial save, denying Zimbabwean forward Junior Zindoga’s header after a cross from Daniel Msendami.
Second Half Push, But Gallants Hold Firm
As the second half began, Orlando Pirates came out with renewed energy, being the first team to press forward.
Dlamini and Mofokeng were involved early, but neither could get a shot past the Gallants defense or goalkeeper.
Chaine was again called into action, making a stunning save to deny Marumo Gallants’ Sekela Sithole, who had broken through on a one-on-one opportunity.
Pirates kept pushing, but Gallants’ solid defending made it difficult for the visitors to create clear-cut chances.
Own Goal Secures Gallants’ Victory
In the 74th minute, Marumo Gallants got a stroke of luck when Orlando Pirates’ Thalente Mbatha inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net, doubling Gallants’ lead to 2-0.
With time running out, Pirates made several attempts to get back into the game, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
The final whistle blew with the score unchanged, and Orlando Pirates were handed their first-ever league defeat to Marumo Gallants, in what many are calling the weekend’s biggest upset.
Pirates’ Title Hopes in Jeopardy
With the loss, Orlando Pirates now find themselves trailing the league leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns, by a massive 18 points.
Although Pirates still have four matches in hand, this defeat has raised serious questions about their ability to challenge for the title this season.
Looking ahead, Pirates will have another tough challenge when they face Chippa United away on Wednesday, 5 March, at 19:30.
Could this loss be the end of Orlando Pirates’ title hopes? Fans are eager to share their thoughts, and you can join the conversation by leaving a comment or sending a message to the WhatsApp number provided.