by NJABULO MKHIZE
DURBAN, (CAJ News) – ORLANDO Pirates produced the weekend’s strongest statement, beating Chippa United 3–0 at Jonsson Kings Park Stadium in Durban on Sunday to move top of the Betway Premiership on seven points.
Ghampani Lungu opened the scoring in the 60th minute, Lebone Seema headed in three minutes later, and Daniel Msendami completed the rout in the 88th minute.
Pirates’ victory was particularly impressive because the goals came from three different players.
Lungu’s finishing, Seema’s aerial threat and Msendami’s instant impact from the bench highlighted the champions’ attacking depth.
Tshepang Moremi and the experienced Deon Hotto also remain important attacking options.
Chippa, meanwhile, must improve after another difficult outing, particularly in the second half.
AmaZulu matched Pirates’ seven-point tally by defeating Siwelele 2–0 at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday.
Mlondi Mbanjwa broke the deadlock before Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya doubled the advantage.
Ngwenya, already in outstanding form, scored his fifth goal in four matches this season and also contributed an assist.
AmaZulu’s defensive organisation was equally encouraging, with another clean sheet strengthening their credentials as early contenders.
Stellenbosch began the weekend with the individual performance of the round.
Quwan Plaatjies scored a hat-trick on his debut as Stellies defeated Marumo Gallants 3–1 at Athlone Stadium.
Thapelo Dhludhlu scored Gallants’ consolation goal.
Plaatjies’ explosive arrival gives Stellenbosch genuine attacking momentum, although Gallants’ defensive vulnerability remains worrying.
Sekhukhune United responded strongly to their midweek defeat by beating Polokwane City 2–0 at Seshego Stadium.
Tshepo Mokoena and Ellis Rammala scored in the first half, while Babina Noko’s disciplined midfield and defence ensured Polokwane never recovered.
Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns shared a 1–1 draw at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, with Flávio Silva scoring for Chiefs before Brayan León equalised.
Both sides remain unbeaten, but Sundowns will want greater attacking sharpness.
Durban City drew 1–1 with Richards Bay at Chatsworth Stadium.
Nqaba Xulu put Richards Bay ahead before Thembela Sikhakhane’s own goal restored parity.
Milford FC beat Kruger United 2–1 at Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium, with Masilela and Thabana Mabena scoring for Milford, while Khetukuthula Ndlovu replied.
TS Galaxy and Golden Arrows ended 0–0 at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.
There is no Betway Premiership round this coming weekend, with attention turning to the MTN8 semi-finals.
Pirates face Sekhukhune, while Sundowns meet Golden Arrows.
League action resumes on 25–26 August. Pirates should enter their next league match with confidence, although Sekhukhune’s resilience makes that a serious test.
AmaZulu face Sundowns, a much sterner examination, while Chiefs travel to Richards Bay.
– CAJ News