Orlando Pirates leave it late before sealing victory against Chippa United

Evidence Makgopa and Oswin Appollis found the back of the net for the Buccaneers after the Chilli Boys had initially frustrated the home side.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi was a notable absentee in the Pirates line-up as the defender is reportedly finalising a transfer to MLS outfit Chicago Fire in the USA.

After a blunt first half in attack, the Soweto giants were much after the interval as head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made some tactical changes.

Relebohile Mofokeng returned to the starting line-up and looked bright and breezy as to penetrate the Chippa defence.

Ouaddou was forced to turn to his bench for some inspiration and Makgopa answered the call as the striker tapped in from close-range in the 75th minute to giver Pirates the lead.

The visitors almost hit back five minutes later, but home goalkeeper Sipho Chaine stood firm to prevent first Asanele Bonani and then Sirgio Kammies from equalising in quick succession.

After the scare, the Buccaneers sealed the win in stoppage-time when another substitute Appollis found the back of the net.

It was a eighth win in eleven league enoucnters for Pirates this season and they sit level on points with top-of-the-table Mamelodi Sundowns.

For Chippa it was a eighth defeat in 13 league matches and they remain rooted to the foot of the table.