Orlando Pirates left it late but walked away with all three points after a dramatic 2-1 victory in a tense Betway Premiership encounter at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday night.
The Buccaneers looked in control for large spells of the contest and appeared set to grind out a narrow win after a breakthrough from Relebohile Mofokeng. The Player of the Month winner once again showcased his composure in front of goal, giving Pirates the lead and rewarding their early dominance.
With fluid movement in midfield and disciplined structure at the back, the visitors dictated tempo and created the better opportunities. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was largely a spectator for much of the match as Bucs pressed for a second goal that never quite arrived.
That failure to extend their advantage almost proved costly.
Against the run of play, Rise and Shone struck back in the 86th minute when Bonginkosi Dlamini reacted quickest inside the box, poking the ball past Chaine to stun the travelling supporters. What had looked like a controlled performance suddenly turned into a nervy finale.
For head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, it seemed like two valuable points were slipping away at a crucial stage of the title race.
But Pirates had one final say.
With stoppage time looming, Deon Hotto surged down the left flank and delivered a teasing cross into the danger area. Waiting inside the box was Tito Maswanganyi, who timed his movement perfectly before guiding his effort beyond Mathebula and into the back of the net.
The late strike sparked wild celebrations on the Pirates bench and in the stands, sealing a dramatic victory that underlined their championship credentials.
The win keeps Pirates level on points with Mamelodi Sundowns at the summit of the table, but with a superior goal difference, the Buccaneers remain top of the standings.
