Orland Pirates kicked off the new year with a 1-1 draw against Bloemfontein Celtic on Saturday afternoon.

The Soweto giants got off to the when Gabadinho Mhango opened the scoring in the 14th minute after latching onto an Augustine Mulenga pass.

Celtic almost made the perfect response shortly after going behind but Mbhazima Rikhotso effort deflected off Ntsikelelo Nyauza and hit the crossbar.

The Buccaneers then thought that they doubled their lead in the 26th minute but Vincent Pule’s effort was ruled off for offsides.

Pirates lead 1-0 at the break but Celtic were still in the game.

The Sea Robbers then had another goal ruled out just after the break but this time for a foul in the build up after Fortune Makaringe’s strike.

Siwelele the started to apply some serious pressure heading into the final 20 minutes and Andile Fikizolo went close but he was was well saved by Wayne Sandilands.

Celtic though eventually made the break through nine minutes before full time through Siphelele Luthuli, who expertly curled his effort into the top corner.

Pirates then almost snatched a late winner through former Celtic striker Tshegofatso Mabasa but his left footed strike that sailed slightly over the bar as the spoils were shared on the day.