10-men Pirates edge Chilli Boys in PE

Cape Town - Orlando Pirates weathered a late storm from Chippa United to record a 1-0 victory in Wednesday's Premiership encounter in Port Elizabeth.

In the opening exchanges both sides tried to establish possession dominance although there were very few chances to score for either team.

Chippa were keeping slightly the majority of the ball although in the final third they were not creating openings.

Nonetheless, Pirates hit the front not long afterwards in the 16th minute following an own goal from Gaona Modisane.

When Pirates won a free-kick from around 30-yards out, Shonga sent a superb curling effort which hit the underside of the crossbar before the rebound bounced downwards into the centre of the small box.

Modisane attempted to clear in a panicked state but sent the ball into his own net on the half-volley beyond a bemused Daniel Akpeyi.

With that said, Chippa's best effort came from Boikanyo Komane later on in the first period. The 25-year-old attempted an ambitious strike from distance which was narrowly away from causing Mpontshane a problem.

After the interval, the Sea Robbers had opportunities to increase their lead but Paseko Mako saw his strike saved before Mpho Makola was denied on the rebound.

However, Mthokozisi Dube was sent off for a second yellow card and this allowed the Chilli Boys back into the contest.

The home side did come close to an equaliser in the last 20 minutes of the game through the lively Ruzaigh Gamildien and Daine Klate, however, Siyabonga Mpontshane made a number of fine saves as Bucs collected a valuable three point.