Orlando Pirates made it three wins in a row for this time this season after defeating Marumo Gallants 2-0 on Saturday evening.
The Buccaneers handed starts to Paseka Mako and Terrence Dzvukamanja following the 4-1 triumph over Stellenbosch FC, while Ismail Watenga made his first appearance in the Gallants goal since October.
A buzzing opening and lively crowd urged the Sea Robbers to make their presence felt early on and they went close to scoring as Deon Hotto burst through from the left of the area before Gallants cleared.
Former Gallants player Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo very nearly got one over his former club with a snap shot from Hotto's knockdown, but the diminutive midfielder went wide of the mark.
Pirates still pushed forward and were rewarded seven minutes ahead of halftime when Monnapule Saleng side-footed Dzvukamanja's square pass into the back of the net for his third league goal of the season.
The host made a double change at the start of the second half, Monde Mphambaniso coming in for Celimpilo Ngema while Katlego Otaldisa made way for Sizwe Mdlinzo.
Pirates looked for a second goal earlier on and could've very well snatched it with a back-heel effort by Saleng, but he went wide and missed out on the opportunity.
Bahlabane Ba Ntwa could've pulled themselves after a low shot from Olivier Toure in the area, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine parried away the effort.
The Buccaneers remained calm and got a second goal midway in the second period when Ndlondlo converted from the penalty-spot after Mahlatse Makudubela brought down Bandile Shandu.
It was a commanding closing minutes for the Buccaneers, althouh they were just unable to add to their advantage despite the few chances here and there.
Pirates in the end bagged the win to cement fourth spot, whileGallants' search for a win in 2023 continues and lie at the foot of the table.
Confirmed line-ups:
Marumo Gallants: Watenga, Nonyane, Toure, Kumalo, Mvelase, Makudubela, Mabotja, Mohomi, Otladisa, Ngema, Chivaviro
Subs: Arubi, Pheko, Mdlinzo, Soumaro, Moseamedi, Mphambaniso, Nkomo, Nku, Khiba
Orlando Pirates: Chaine, Xoki, Sibisi, Mako, Shandu, Monare, Ndlondlo, Hotto, Saleng, Dlamini, Dzvukamanja
Subs: Mpontshane, Mabena, Erasmus, Pule, Nga, Martin, Maela, Mosele, Motshwari
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