Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng described his first professional hat-trick as a “special” milestone after a dominant display in a 6-0 demolition of TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium.
The result powered Pirates to the summit of the Betway Premiership, edging ahead in a tightly contested title race with Mamelodi Sundowns, albeit having played a game more.
Pirates set the tone early, as Mofokeng struck a brilliant free-kick in the sixth minute. The Buccaneers went to the break leading 3-0 against 10-man Galaxy after Lentswe Motaung was given marching orders in the fourth minute. The other first-half goal came from Tshepang Moremi, with the other being an own goal by Mlungisi Mbunjana.
But the second half belonged to Mofokeng. The 21-year-old forward struck soon after the restart and completed his hat-trick in the 68th minute with a composed finish from range, capping a ruthless attacking performance as Pirates looked to improve their goal difference.
Reflecting on the moment, Mofokeng was quick to credit the collective effort.
MOFOKENG REACTS TO FIRST HAT-TRICK
“First, I’d like to thank my teammates. They worked very hard. They deserve this win. I think we’ve been working ahead of this match all week. So I think the win was very hard. It was very difficult. But I think we managed to get the three points, and we move on,” he said.
On his achievement, the Bafana Bafana attacker admitted the hat-trick had been a long time coming.
“It’s very special. I’ve been waiting for this moment … I’ve not been getting these kinds of moments,” Mofokeng said. “It’s very important to boost my confidence.”
He also pointed out that the improvements came from practice in the training ground following a disappointing draw against Siwelele.
“We’ve been training and working on our finishing and composure…. “ With the title race intensifying, Mofokeng had a clear message for the Buccaneers faithful.
“This is for the fans. This is your team, and we will always do our best for you.” Ex-TS Galaxy winger Kamogelo Sebelebele also scored against his former side. After the international break, the Bucs host Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium on April 7 before visiting Richards Bay FC three days later.
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