An 87th minute goal from Tokelo Rantie gave Orlando Pirates a 2-1 victory over hosts Jomo Cosmos in their Premier League match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, on Sunday.
Through a solid display by goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs, Pirates were able to keep themselves level with an inspired Cosmos side who outplayed the visitors for much of the game.
Even with a number of wasted chances from Pirates, Jomo Cosmos’ side could have won the game had they displayed better finishing.
The teams went into the break a goal each, and it was through the flawless finish from Rantie with a strike into the top corner of goal that saw Pirates to victory.
With the win Pirates rise to fifth place on the table after nine games, while Cosmos remain at the bottom of the log.
Earlier, the visitors dominated in the early play and created many chances.
In the 20th minute Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi’s clever header into the ground required a full length dive from Cosmos keeper Avril Phalia to keep the effort out.
A minute short of the half-hour mark, Cosmos clicked into gear and launched a fast attack, tearing the Pirates defenders to pieces.
A well worked move saw Nontshinga in perfect position from a cross in the middle of the six-yard area and he buried his effort to make it 1-0 to the hosts.
A goal separated the sides before the break when Pirates were awarded a penalty after Lehlohonolo Nonyane fouled Rudolf Bester in the box.
Isaac Chansa stepped up to the spot and levelled the score.
In the 53rd minute, Nontshinga was close to forging a when his close-range shot was well saved by Josephs.
The second period was more open, with both teams employing more attacking play.
With full time approaching, Rantie grabbed the three points for his team.
‘To me that was diabolical. We had more chances than them, we should have won this game,” said Sono after the game. – Sapa