A stunning free-kick from Kabelo Dlamini saw Orlando Pirates secure a 1-0 victory over Richards Bay at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium in Durban on Sunday.

Kenyan Ian Otieno, who was signed off-season by Zambian team ZESCO United, has taken Jamal Magoola’s spot as the starting custodian, a Ugandan who had held the position for a long time.

He demonstrated his worth by consistently outlasting Pirates in Durban until being defeated on 82 minutes by a substitute Kabelo Dlamini’s free kick.

Dlamini scored his first goal of the season, which began last month. He is the eighth Buccaneer goal scorer in league and playoff games this year.

After three wins apiece for the two title favourites, Pirates are now in second place on goal differential, behind Mamelodi Sundowns, the defending champions.

Sundowns, who won the CAF Champions League in the past, are vying for the Premiership for an eighth time in a row, while Pirates last won the championship in 2012.

With a victory, a draw, and two losses, Richards Bay, who won a mini-league to avoid relegation the previous season, are currently ranked tenth.

The Soweto-based Pirates will play Stellenbosch in the final of a knockout competition on Saturday in Durban, with a 10 million rand prize up for grabs for the winner.

Lehlohonolo Mojela gave the visitors the lead, but Thabang Matuludi’s deflected shot shortly before halftime tied the score at 1-1 for Stellenbosch.

Bienvenue Eva Nga of Cameroon gave Chippa United the lead in their 2-1 victory over TS Galaxy at home. Dzenan Zajmovic, a fresh addition to the team, scored the team’s first league goal of the year.