10-MAN PIRATES BACK TO WINNING WAYS

Pirates.......................................(2)3
Sikhalo......................................(1)1

MANZINI – Moneni Pirates beat Sikhalo Se-Africa 3-1 to keep their hopes of a quick comeback to the big stage alive.

After firing blanks in the goal-less draw away at Manchester United in Pigg’s Peak last week, Mlamuli ‘Sputla’ Zwane’s charges were eager to return to winning ways when they crossed swords with the Siteki-based side in the MTN National First Division clash played at Mavuso Sports Centre yesterday.

Despite an early scare by the opposition who opened their account first through Bhekani, Pirates responded quickly through Xolani Ngwenya from a goal-mouth scramble.

Former RSSC burly forward, Ugochuku Ohakwe, opened his account for his team with an easy tap-in from near range following a defence freezing pass from Ndumiso ‘King’ Masetha Dlamini to give his team a slim advantage at the break.

The heat took its toll on the players after the re-start and the game lost momentum. There was a nervous moment for the about 100 home supporters when forward, Mfanufikile ‘Fash’ Ndzimandze, received his marching orders for a reckless challenge.

Sikhalo were putting the hosts under a lot of pressure towards the end but Pirates’ Fanelo Mamba raced with ball from 25 yards against the run of play to put the game to to bed five minutes from time. It was a much-needed relief for the black and white ensemble as they jumped to the second and promotion spot with 10 points in five matches. Leading the pack is Tambuti with 12 points.

Zwane lamented the very hot conditions but stressed that their focus was on returning to the Premier League.
“We played well under the conditions.
There is still a long way to go. We’ll fight,” he said.

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