Radiopane Shines On First Start As Pirates Sink Sekhukhune Again

Orlando Pirates continued their impressive start to the Betway Premiership campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United at Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday evening.

The result sees the Buccaneers maintain their position at the top of the league table, continuing their strong opening to the campaign while once again getting the better of Babina Noko.

Tuesday’s match was the second meeting between the two sides in the space of just three days. Pirates defeated Sekhukhune in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final at the weekend in Polokwane, and the teams will meet again at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday for the second leg.

Just as they did in the previous encounter, Pirates found the breakthrough before half-time. Boitumelo Radiopane opened the scoring with a right-footed shot from inside the box after being set up by Kamogelo Sebelebele, who provided the assist with a well-delivered cross.

The Buccaneers continued to dominate after the break and created several opportunities to extend their advantage. Their pressure eventually paid off as Oswin Appollis doubled the lead on the hour mark, scoring his second goal of the season.

Radiopane once again played an important role in the move, providing the assist for Appollis’ goal and capping an impressive first start for the young forward.

It was Radiopane’s first start for Pirates this season after previously making appearances from the bench. He was handed an opportunity in the starting XI after Yanela Mbuthuma was not included in the matchday squad.

Pirates remained the more dangerous side throughout the second half, creating a number of chances, but they were unable to add to their tally as the match ultimately ended 2-0 in favour of the Buccaneers.

The victory leaves Pirates at the summit of the Betway Premiership with 10 points, three points clear of Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu, who are also set to play their fourth matches of the campaign on Wednesday.

The early signs are certainly encouraging for the Buccaneers. Their strong start is a notable contrast to last season, when Pirates eventually went on to win the league title but struggled at the beginning of the campaign, even finding themselves in the relegation zone during the early stages.

With another victory over Sekhukhune already secured and Saturday’s MTN8 semi-final second leg still to come, where they hold the advantage, Pirates will be hoping to maintain their momentum and continue their impressive start to the new season.