Orlando Pirates star Monnapule Saleng scored a hat-trick as they defeated Soweto rivals Swallows FC 4-1 on Friday night in the DStv Premiership.
Rejuvenated Zimbabwe international Terrence Dzukamanja was also on target as the Bucs bounced back to winning ways.
The victory saw Pirates move to third on the log standings. They are now three points above their crosstown rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Richards Bay FC, who face off on Saturday.
IN FORM SALENG
Pirates headed into the encounter a wounded lion. They lost 1-0 to Chiefs last weekend, while Swallows defeated Chippa United 2-1.
The Soweto giants opened the scoring in the sixth minute. In-form Monnapule Saleng scored his sixth goal of the season from close range.
In the 19th minute, Thembinkosi Lorch tried to double the lead, but a Swallows defender blocked his shot.
Deon Hotto was caught offside on the half-hour mark after a beautiful pass from Kabelo Dlamini. Three minutes later, Swallows created their first real chance of the game. Tawana Macheke’s shot was well saved by Sipho Chaine.
In the last five minutes of the first half, Pirates started pushing for another goal. However, they couldn’t find the back of the net.
BUCS DOMINANCE
Just after the restart, the Bucs doubled their lead through Dzvukamanja from close range.
The hosts tried to pull one back immediately, but Pirates’ defence was alert and cleared the ball from the danger zone.
Saleng made it three for the Sea Robbers exactly on the hour mark, thanks to an assist by Dlamini.
The host pulled one back as Mthokozisi Shwabule scored for the Dube Birds. However, it was too late, as the damage was already done.
Saleng then put the final nail in the coffin with his third for the night in additional time.
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