Orlando Pirates Drop Late Points in TS Galaxy Stalemate

Orlando Pirates were dealt a crushing blow at Orlando Stadium on Saturday as they surrendered a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with TS Galaxy, extending a frustrating run just days after parting ways with head coach Jose Riveiro.

In their first match under interim boss Mandla Ncikazi, the Buccaneers struggled to find rhythm, dropping more crucial points in the Betway Premiership and falling 14 points behind champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who were officially crowned on the same night.

How It Happened

• 65’ – Bandile Shandu gave Pirates the lead with a tidy tap-in after a smart through ball from Mohau Nkota, marking his second goal in as many games.
• Pirates looked to be heading for three points until Mpho Mvelase capitalised on a loose ball deep into stoppage time (90+4’), levelling the score and silencing the home crowd.

Despite energy from youngsters like Relebohile Mofokeng and Simphiwe Selepe, Pirates were toothless in the final third, with TS Galaxy goalkeeper Ira Tape largely untroubled.

Changes & Missed Opportunities

Both teams introduced fresh legs in the closing stages — including Keagan Dolly for Galaxy and Thuso Moleleki, making his debut for Pirates — but neither side could find the breakthrough until Mvelase’s dramatic equaliser.

A spectacular late save from Melusi Buthelezi seemed to secure the points before Galaxy’s late sucker punch.

Standings Snapshot

• Pirates sit 2nd on the log with 56 points from 25 matches, six more than last season’s total.
• However, the gap to Sundowns is a glaring 14 points, underlining the work that lies ahead in the post-Riveiro era.

What’s Next?

Orlando Pirates now turn their focus to a high-stakes clash against SuperSport United, hoping to end the season on a high and restore confidence after a disappointing title run-in.