Orlando Pirates moved into second on the Absa Premiership log after thrashing AmaZulu 4-1 at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday evening.

Pirates came into the game knowing that both Mamelodi Sundowns and Bidvest wits dropped points in the 1-1 draw at the Bidvest Stadium in the earlier game, leaving the door open to gain points on both their title rivals.

Usuthu, on the other hand, were looking to claim another impressive scalp and steer further clear of the relegation battle.

It was the men from the KZN who go off to a great start as Michael Morton slipped in Jabulani Ncobeni in the 17th minute, the midfielder then made no mistake in sliding his shot past Wayne Sandilands in the Pirates goal.

It did not, however, take the Buccaneers long to his back Thembinkosi Lorch sent Vincent Pule down the right wing, the midfielder then in turn found Kudakwashe Mahachi at the far post, leaving the forward with a tap-in.

The Sea Robbers were then in free flow as the calved open their opponents defence seemingly at will as Justin Shonga this time picked out Luvuyo Mamela who calmly finished to give his side the lead five minutes before the break.

Pirates then firmly took control of the game as Shonga this time got on the end of a cross after some scintillating build-up play.

The home side started the second half as they finished the first as they flooded forward looking to add to their goal tally but were met a more stubborn AmaZulu.

Pirates were almost out of sight when Lorch fired into the side netting after showing some sublime skill in the build up with 59 minutes gone.

Cavin Johnsons men were hoping to restrict the Soweto giants in the second half but Pirates eventually got their fourth as Ben Motshwari found the back of the net with a lovely volley with the outside of his boot.

4-1 the final score as Orlando Pirates move above Mamelodi Sundowns on goal difference.
Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix