Orlando Pirates secured a narrow 1-0 win over Chippa United while Ajax Cape Town claimed their first victory in the Absa Premiership by edging Platinum Stars 3-2 on Tuesday.

The Chilli Boys had the most ball possession in the opening exchanges, but didn’t really threaten Pirates goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane.

The Buccaneers’ chance to score came in the 17th minute when Tendai Ndoro looked set to put Thabo Rakhale through on goal, but he was called offside.

However, four minutes later the visitors were rewarded and took the lead when Luvuyo Memela set up Ndoro, who was on target from close range.

Chippa had a golden opportunity to level matters in the 35th minute when Paseka Mako’s cross found Thembinkosi Lorch, who headed his effort on target. The initial shot was parried by Pirates shot-stopper Mabokgwane, but nly as far as David Zulu, who missed a sensational chance from close range.

The second half started well when Buccaneers pressed forward, hoping to extend their lead with Mpho Makola picking out Rakhale at the far post with a chip, but his effort was well saved.

Goalkeeper Mabokgwane made a huge mistake just past the hour mark when he fumbled Thopola’s shot and saw the ball roll to the far post but, luckily, was guided away from the Pirates goal.

Late drama saw Chippa go on the attack and appeal for a penalty in stoppage time, but to no avail. Buccaneers walked away with all three points.

Meanwhile, Ajax Cape Town recorded their first win in the Absa Premiership by beating Platinum Stars 3-2 at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

Early strikes from Bantu Mzwakali and Prince Nxumalo added to an own goal from Dikwena goalkeeper Steven Hoffman, and saw the Urban Warriors clinch a much-needed victory lifting them from the bottom of the table.

Stars lost their fourth successive PSL match at home, with captain Vuyo Mere and Benson Shilongo getting on the scoresheet in the second half.

Image: Deryck Foster/BackpagePix