POLOKWANE – Mhango has now taken the led in the race for the golden boot after he reached double figures and surpassed Highlands Park striker, Peter Shalulile. Mhango’s three goals helped the Buccaneers ease past a struggling Rise and Shine outfit, who recently appointed Cavin Johnson as their new coach.
Orlando Pirates started the game on a positive note and lead by three goals at the break.
Mhango opened the scoring in the fourth minute of the match when he beat the City defenders and found the back of the net. Mhango doubled Pirates’ lead in the 14th minute. Innocent Maela of Pirates had the chance to add another in the 28th minute but was unable to beat City goalkeeper, George Chigova. Mhango completed his hat-trick in the 36th minute, which surely wrapped up the three points for the visitors. Rise and Shine however had the opportunity to start a fightback when when they were awarded a penalty in the 39th minute but Mohammed Anas failed in his attempt.
Pirates midfielder, Abel Mabaso did not fail in his attempt when he scored their fourth goal on the stroke of half-time. Pirates kept on playing good football at the start of the second half and controlled the game for most parts. Anas managed to find the back of the net in the 64th minute but it would only be of little consolation to the hosts.
Pirates will take on Mamelodi Sundowns in their next league encounter on Wednesday, 15 January while Polokwane City will face Baroka FC in the Limpopo derby on 11 January.