Orlando Pirates have returned to the top of the Betway Premiership following a commanding 6-0 victory over TS Galaxy, with defender Kamogelo Sebelebele insisting the title race remains wide open.
The Buccaneers delivered a dominant performance at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday, overwhelming a 10-man Galaxy side in a result that could prove pivotal in the closing stages of the season.
Despite reclaiming first place, Sebelebele stressed that there is still significant work ahead.
“Ja, obviously it wasn’t an easy game because we came here after a draw,” he told OP TV.
The victory comes after Orlando Pirates dropped points in a previous match against Siwelele FC, a result that had drawn criticism from sections of their support and allowed rivals Mamelodi Sundowns to briefly take the lead in the standings.
Facing increased pressure to respond, Orlando Pirates did so emphatically. Young forward Relebohile Mofokeng was the standout performer, scoring his first senior hat-trick and earning the man-of-the-match award. Additional goals came from Tshepang Moremi, an own goal by Mlungisi Mbunjana, and Sebelebele himself.
Sebelebele acknowledged the challenge of bouncing back from a disappointing draw but said the squad had been determined to improve.
“But as guys we told ourselves that we’re gonna push and do better on this game,” he said.
“And we pushed and managed to score a lot of goals, six goals.”
The defender, who has previously played for TS Galaxy, also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus as the season nears its conclusion. With eight matches remaining, he warned against complacency despite the comprehensive nature of the win.
“The league is not over; there’s still a long way to go because we’re left with eight games still,” he said.
Orlando Pirates approached the match aware of Galaxy’s strengths, particularly their ability to counter-attack. Sebelebele said neutralising that threat was key to their success.
“We came here knowing that it wouldn’t be easy to beat TS Galaxy as they are good on transition,” he explained.
“But we fought to make sure they don’t get anything out of this game.”
He added that maintaining defensive solidity was central to their strategy, expressing confidence that opportunities would come at the other end of the pitch.
“We know that if they don’t score, there’s no way we cannot get chances in 90 minutes to score.”
The result not only restores Pirates’ position at the summit but also sends a strong message to their title rivals.
However, with several matches still to play, the outcome of the championship remains uncertain, as Sebelebele and his teammates continue their push for silverware.
