Mvelase stuns Pirates as Galaxy snatch dramatic draw in Orlando
Betway Premiership
Orlando Pirates’ Tshegofatso Mabasa (right) challenges for the ball against TS Galaxy’s Siphesihle Maduna.
Image: ITUMELENG ENGLISH, Independent Media
Orlando Pirates 1 – 1 TS Galaxy
Orlando Stadium – TS Galaxy’s Mpho Mvelase silenced the Orlando Stadium faithful on Saturday afternoon as he fired home a second-half equaliser to deny Orlando Pirates victory in their first match since the departure of coach Jose Riveiro.
It looked to be business as usual early on when Bandile Shandu put Pirates ahead, capitalising on their lively start. Mohau Nkota came close to extending the lead, but his effort narrowly missed the target.
However, Galaxy – still pushing for a place in the Top 8 – grew into the game and eventually made their pressure count when Mvelase pounced to level matters, leaving the Buccaneers frustrated in front of their home fans.
The draw came just days after Pirates demolished Golden Arrows 3-0, a result that had briefly lifted spirits in the camp amid the uncertainty following Riveiro’s exit. The Spaniard is widely expected to take up the reins at Egyptian giants Al Ahly, and assistant Mandla Ncikazi has now been handed the job of seeing out the season.
With the league title long wrapped up by Mamelodi Sundowns, Pirates have little left to chase but pride – while TS Galaxy’s fight for a Top 8 finish remains very much alive.