Orlando Pirates suffer major setback in Betway Premiership title chase
Mamelodi Sundowns hold the upper hand in the title contest following Orlando Pirates dropped points, as they were outdone by two stunning long range efforts though they managed to grab a late equaliser.
The home team takes the front
Richards Bay went ahead in the 11th minute with a truly spectacular strike that could vie for goal of the season.
Simphiwe Mcineka nodded the ball to Thulani Gumede approximately 25 yards out, and his volley connected perfectly, flying into the top corner and leaving Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine helpless.
Gumede had previously scored the decisive goal in Richards Bays victory over Kaizer Chiefs at home last month, and now he has found the net against yet another team from Soweto. This marks only his fifth Betway Premiership goal, yet it stands out as likely his finest ever.
The equaliser comes from the expected source
Orlando Pirates drew level just six minutes into the second half, courtesy of none other than Oswin Appollis.
In all fairness, it was an easy chance, but he expertly controlled a delivery from Relebohile Mofokeng inside the penalty area with a fine touch, then slotted the ball low into the net from close range with no opposition nearby.
This goal represents Appollis sixth in his past nine appearances for both club and national team, coming right after his two goals against Lamontville Golden Arrows earlier in the week.
Credit must also go to Mofokeng, who has now reached 15 goal involvements from January onwards with nine goals and six assists, maintaining his impressive run of form.
Zikhali puts Richards Bay back in front
However, that celebration was short lived, as Orlando Pirates again fell victim to a shot from distance.
Lundi Mahala mishandled the ball on the edge of the area, but it looped favourably for Lindokuhle Zikhali, who rifled a low drive past Chaine from 25 yards.
Chaine rarely concedes from such range, and he got nearer to this one, but it was the third occasion this season that Orlando Pirates have allowed two goals in a single league match.
Before this game, they had only let in nine goals across 23 league fixtures, yet here they shipped two exceptional efforts.
This was Zikhali first goal since his strike against Magesi FC back in September, bringing his career tally to just four.
A dramatic late equaliser
It appeared Orlando Pirates were headed for a loss, but for the third time in the game, a brilliant effort from outside the box materialised.
Lebone Seema collected the ball 35 yards out, composed himself with a couple of touches, then fired an unerring shot into the far corner.
It was a magnificent hit, highlighting his prowess from afar.
This effort also prevented Orlando Pirates first defeat to Richards Bay in KwaZulu Natal.
What is the current situation?
Though not a devastating setback for their championship aspirations, Orlando Pirates must now hope that other teams grant them significant help, possibly on multiple occasions, to overtake Sundowns.
Sundowns sit on 56 points with a goal difference of plus 30, whereas Pirates have 55 points and plus 36, but they have now completed one more match.
Considering Sundowns strong performance in the league, it seems unlikely they will lose sufficient points for Pirates to close the gap, yet Pirates must hold onto optimism.