Orlando Pirates opened their defence of the Betway Premiership title with a 2-0 victory over newcomers Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.
The Buccaneers secured all three points with goals from Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi. Appollis put the champions ahead in the 24th minute before Moremi settled the match with a second goal five minutes from time.
The result gives Orlando Pirates the ideal start to their campaign as they seek to retain the title.
In the other two 15:00 fixtures, Golden Arrows and Chippa United drew 0-0, while AmaZulu edged Stellenbosch FC 1-0.
Orlando Pirates 2-0 Milford FC
Orlando Pirates controlled the contest sufficiently to claim victory against Betway Premiership newcomers Milford FC, although they had to wait until the final stages to add the second goal.
Appollis broke the deadlock after 24 minutes, giving the home side a lead they held until late in the game. Moremi then found the net in the 85th minute to complete the scoring and ensure the defending champions began their title defence with a win.
#### Orlando Pirates line-up
Chaine, Sebelebele, Sibisi, Seema, Hotto, Dansin, Mbatha, Appollis, Maswanganyi, Moremi, Mbuthuma.
Substitutes: Dladla, Kgositsile, Masilela, Zulu, Mariko, Mthiyane, Radiopane, Lungu, Rapoo.
#### Milford FC line-up
Hleza (captain), Bhengu, Mthabela, Cele, Mdluli, Mthethwa, Mthiyane, Chili, Mabena, Zikakayo, Radebe.
Substitutes: Nkosi, Ngxongo, Mbhele, Siyaya, Mkhize, Nomandela, Mbunga, Jwara, Masilela.
Other opening-day results
Golden Arrows and Chippa United could not find a goal in their meeting, sharing the points after a goalless draw.
AmaZulu, meanwhile, claimed a narrow 1-0 win against Stellenbosch FC in the other match that began at 15:00.
The victory over Milford FC was Orlando Pirates’ first result of the new Betway Premiership campaign and started their attempt to defend the league title in winning fashion.
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