A late Tshegofatso Mabasa goal handed Orlando Pirates a 1-0 win over Swallows FC on Saturday afternoon.

After a frantic start, both sides had opportunities at either end with Swallows imposing on the break and from set plays while Pule threatened for the Sea Robbers.

It became a tight affair with few chances at either end, while Pule came closest before the break with a shot from 35 yards which flew narrowly wide.

Pirates came out with intent in the second half and went close through Abel Mabaso, who could not get enough power on his touch to put the ball in the net.

The breakthrough eventually came as Tshedgofatso Mabasa came off the bench to get on the end of the influential Pule’s cross to find the back of the net and put his side ahead.

Swallows pushed forward in the closing stages but Mponytshane proved equal to whatever was thrown at him as Pirates walked away with the three points.