Orlando Pirates returned to winning ways in the Betway Premiership with a slender 1-0 win against Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, courtesy of Nkosinathi Sibisi’s goal on the stroke of half time.

Jose Riveiro, who was absent in the 2-0 defeat to Marumo Gallants due to suspension, gave youngsters Siyabonga Ndlozi and Mbekezeli Mbokazi rare starts as the Sea Robbers reduced the gap behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to 16 points after Sundowns was held by Golden Arrows.

The high intensity game started like a house on fire with the home team looking the most lively between the two sides. However, their early threats through corner kicks and long throw ins were in vain.

Referee Skhumbuzo Gasa didn’t hesitate to caution defender Sibisi for simulation in the 15th minute. The Bucs center-back will miss the next match. Kabelo Dlamini missed an opportunity to give the Buccaneers the lead moments later as he failed to convert Relebohile Mofokeng’s cut back.

Miscommunication at the back nearly handed the Chilli Boys a goal on a silver platter but Ndlozi was alert to the danger and cleared for a throw in which was dealt with. Inverted winger Giovanni Philander cut inside Ndlozi in the 21st minute but could only send his shot into row-Z.

Another mistake in the shaky Pirates defense saw the tricky Philander get another chance, however Melusi Buthelezi closed the angle for the former Mamelodi Sundowns reserve player, who released a shot wide off the target.

On the other end, Mofokeng found in-form Tshegofatso Mabasa, who was running in between the pockets but the striker couldn’t beat Stanley Nwabali as the Nigerian made himself big in the Chippa United goal.

Mabasa squandered another golden chance with a weak shot in the 37th minute after a quick exchange of passes from Deon Hotto and Dlamini to find him in the box. Diminutive Sibisi headed in Mofokeng’s corner, beating Sinoxolo Kwayiba to give Pirates the lead going into half time.

Keen to pick up from where they left off, Mohau Nkota cut in from the right but saw his shot go over the bar seven minutes into the second stanza. Few moments later, Ndlozi called Nwabali into action with the shot-stopper equal to the task.

Thabo September’s charges kept knocking as Philander continued to ask questions with a snapshot close to the hour mark as Buthelezi comfortably collected the ball. Riveiro introduced Goodman Mosele and Paseka Mako for Thalente Mbatha and Thalente Mbatha.

The Spanish mentor threw in Evidence Makgopa in place of Mabasa with 10 minutes remaining, looking to manage the game and walk away with maximum points with the Limpopo-born player’s hold up play – a goal they achieved.