Orlando Pirates went top of the Absa Premiership as they came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Bloemfontein Celtic at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.

Pirates came into the game knowing that the three points could prove vital in their bid for the league title.

Celtic, on the other hand, were looking to have a say of their own in the title race after holding top of the table Sundowns to a goalless draw over the weekend.

A frantic start to the game saw both teams with early chances to open the scoring, but Celtic’s Mzwanele Mahashe and Pirates skipper Happy Jele both showed their defensive strengths to snuff out the opponent attacks.

Pirate then began to stamp their possession-based style on to the game, but were met by a solid and well-organised opponent doing well to restrict any opportunities.

The Bucs finally had a chance at goal after 33 minutes, but Vincent Pule’s long-range strike was easily dealt with by Patrick Tignyemb.

Then just four minutes later, and very much against the run of play, the visitors opened the scoring as Tshepo Rikhotso finished from close range after Pirates failed to deal with a corner.

1-0 to the visitors at the break, with Pirates needing a big second stanza.

The Sea Robbers quickly fell into their rhythm in the second half, but were still finding it difficult to break down their disciplined opponents.

The game eventually began to open up, though, and Thembinkhosi Lorch looked to capitalise on the spaces, only to be denied on two occasions by the Celtic keeper.

Pirates eventually got their leveller with 10 minutes to play as Justin Shonga went on a magnificent run, beating three defenders before setting up Luvuyo Memela, who made no mistake with his finish.

The home side threw men forward in hopes of grabbing a late winner, but could not find the vital goal as the match finished 1-1.