Orlando Pirates secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday, thanks to a stellar performance from substitute Evidence Makgopa, who scored twice in the second half.

Pirates dominated the second half after a relatively even first half. Monnapule Saleng opened the scoring in the 55th minute before Makgopa added two goals to seal the win.

Makgopa, who replaced Tshegofatso Mabasa at halftime, scored his first goal in the 65th minute and his second in the 90th minute.

Despite picking up six points in their first two matches, Polokwane City faced an uphill battle against Pirates. Their only previous victory over Pirates at Orlando Stadium came in a cup match in 2016/17.

Polokwane’s star man, Oswin Appollis, made his first start of the season against Pirates but was unable to prevent his team from defeat.

The first half was relatively goalless, with both teams creating limited chances. Pirates had a few opportunities through Relebohile Mofokeng and Kabelo Dlamini, but their shots went wide.

Pirates’ breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Saleng scored from a cross by Mofokeng. This was Saleng’s fourth goal in all competitions this season.

Makgopa’s first goal came after he capitalized on a loose ball in the box. His second goal was a well-taken finish from close range.

The only negative for Pirates was the injury to captain Olisa Ndah, who appeared to have picked knee injury and was replaced by Nkosinathi Sibisi.