Betway Premiership: Orlando Pirates edge weakened Orbit College

Orlando Pirates experienced stiffer resistance than anticipated on Tuesday but did enough to secure a 1-0 home victory over Orbit College in Betway Premiership action.

Visitors and top division newcomers Orbit College were always long shots for anything but a defeat with three key players unavailable due to being on loan from Pirates, including temperamental attacker Monnepule Saleng. However, the North West Province side relied on their tenacious defense to hold the Bucs scoreless through the first half.

But the visitors fell victim to a moment of brilliance from an unexpected source. In the 57th minute, Pirates center back Lebone Seema collected after a cross was cleared outside the penalty area and uncorked a stellar strike to beat Orbit College and Lesotho national team goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane and that was all the Bucs needed.

Stellenbosch FC, who advanced to the final of the MTN 8 for a duel with Pirates, finally got their first league victory on Tuesday with a 1-0 result over Marumo Gallants. South Africa U-20 international forward Langelihle Phili made an instant impact after coming on at halftime, scoring the match winner less than a minute into the second half.

TS Galaxy defeated Siwelele FC with a 2-0 result while Richards Bay also emerged winners over Chippa United. Durban City managed to hold hosts Polokwane City to a scoreless draw in the other game from Tuesday.

A blockbuster clash between hosts Kaizer Chiefs and reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns awaits on Wednesday as the highlight in a slate of three games. Sekhukhune United, perfect through three games, are also in action against AmaZulu.

Tuesday Results

Orlando Pirates 1-0 Orbit College

TS Galaxy 2-0 Siwelele

Richards Bay 1-0 Chippa United

Stellenbosch 1-0 Marumo Gallants

Polokwane City 0-0 Durban City

Wednesday Fixtures

Sekhukhune United vs. AmaZulu

Kaizer Chiefs vs. Mamelodi Sundowns

Golden Arrows vs. Magesi