Orlando Pirates defeated Siwelele FC 1-0 in the Betway Premiership fixture at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
The Buccaneers entered the match aiming to climb into the top four from 8th place, a target they met as they now sit just one point behind third-placed Kaizer Chiefs.
Pirates claimed victory over Siwelele FC in Bloemfontein, improving their away record despite their limited scoring return on the road this season.
It was substitute Oswin Appollis who made the difference, netting in the 80th minute to secure all three points for Pirates.
Statistically, Pirates recorded 63% possession compared to Siwelele’s 37%, with nine total shots against the hosts’ six. Pirates produced three shots on target to Siwelele’s two and created three big chances, while Siwelele had none.
In passing, Pirates completed 319 of 404 attempts at 79% accuracy, while Siwelele completed 143 of 231 passes at 62%. Pirates also led in final-third passes, completing 59 of 97 (61%) to Siwelele’s 40 of 93 (43%).
The expected goals (xG) margin reflected the outcome, with Pirates registering 0.69 against Siwelele’s 0.41.
Defensively, Siwelele made 15 clearances compared to Pirates’ 35, while duels were evenly contested, with Siwelele winning 59 and Pirates 58. Goalkeepers on both sides made two saves each.
The result lifted Pirates to 4th place with 12 points from six matches, marking their fourth consecutive league win. Siwelele remained winless in seven matches, dropping to 15th with four points from eight games.
Lehlohonolo Seema’s side will next face Marumo Gallants in the Bloemfontein derby on Sunday.
Photo: Charle Lombard/Gallo Images
