With five minutes on the clock, Pirates immediately assumed possession of the ball and strung a number of passing sequences together. Hotto manufactured the first real chance of the game after making a darting run into the box, however, the Namibian was thwarted at the right time.

Pirates continued to dominate play as the 15th minute approached as Gallants sat back in soaking up the pressure. During this period, the home team were reduced to playing on the counterattack.

In looking to find openings in the Gallants defence, Pirates attacked predominantly on their left-hand side, with Hotto proving to be a tricky customer to deal with. However, the home side remained solid midway through the first half.

Gallants' best chances stemmed from set-piece situations but failed to trouble the stubborn Bucs backline. Pirates remained assured and confident in their build-up play, taking the patient approach for most of the first half.

The Soweto giants' pressure paid off in the 36th minute, after Dzvukamanja penetrated the Gallants backline on the left flank. The attacker then found Saleng in the centre of the box, who calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net.

After a half of dominance, Pirates went into the break with a slender 1-0 lead at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

Much like that of the first half, Pirates got the second 45 off to a strong start and immediately went on the attack. In managing the attacking moves, Gallants defended deep in their own half.

Pirates doubled their advantage in the 67th minute after the referee spotted an infringement inside the Gallants area. While Watenga dived in the correct direction, Ndlondlo’s effort proved to be too accurate for the Marumo shot-stopper.

Nonetheless, Pirates saw out the game without any troubles and recorded a 2-0 win at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

Marumo Gallants: (0)

Orlando Pirates: (0) 2 (Saleng 36’, Ndlondlo 67’)

Gallants: Watenga, Mabotja, Nonyane, Toure, Mvelase (Khiba 87’), Khumalo (Soumaharo 63’) , Ngema (Mphambaniso 45’), Mohomi, Otladisa (Mdlinzo 45’), Makudubela, Chivaviro

Pirates: Chaine, Mako, Sibisi, Xoki, Hotto, Monare, Ndlondlo (Motshwari 85’), Shandu (Martin 71’), Dlamini (Mosele 71’) , Saleng (Eva Nga 85’), Dzvukamanja (Pule 78’)