By Michael Madyira
Tshegofatso Mabasa struck a second-half brace to keep Orlando Pirates in the hunt for a CAF Champions League slot after beating Cape Town City 2-0 in a Premier Soccer League match at Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday.
Mabasa scored at 58 minutes before sealing his double in the 72nd minute to hand the Buccaneers maximum points on the road.
The victory saw Pirates remaining in contention for finishing the season second on the table.
But it was another bad day for City coach Eric Tinkler, whose side has now gone for 10 PSL games without a win.
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, Deon Hotto and Miguel Timm were back from suspension for Pirates, while midfielder Lesedi Kapinga started his first-ever match for the Buccaneers.
Pirates had Makhehlene Makhaula and Patrick Maswanganyi suspended, while City welcomed defender Keanu Cupido back from suspension.
The home side almost went ahead 10 minutes into the contest, but Chaine did well to deny Cupido. Then, City goalkeeper Darren Keet blocked Tshegofatso Mabasa in a high-tempo first half with few chances.
But Citizens coach Tinkler was forced to alter his plans after 27 minutes, taking off an injured Cupido for Patrick Fisher.
Relebohile Mofokeng was a big threat from Pirates, keeping City defenders on their toes, but despite his box entries, he could not make that breakthrough.
But just before the hour mark, Mofokeng played in Mabasa, whose finish could not be reached by an outstretched Keet.
Mabasa and Mofokeng were to combine again, with the former finishing from inside the box to double the Soweto giants’ advantage.
City thought they had an opportunity to pull a goal back when Deon Hotto apparently handled the ball inside the box, but the referee waved play-on.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates forward Tshegofatso Mabasa celebrating with Lesedi Kapinga.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
