Orlando Pirates back up to second in the table after seeing off Chippa

Kabelo Dlamini and Thembinkosi Lorch were on target in the first half as the Buccaneers moved above SuperSport United on the log on goal difference as the race to play Caf Champions League football next season intensifies.

The game started at a high temp with Pirates almost opening the scoring after two minutes but Monnapule Saleng reacted late and the opportunity went begging.

The Chilli Boys then fashioned a chance but Brooklyn Poggenpoel put his effort wide after Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine fluffed his lines.

The hosts were made to pay for that miss as the Soweto giants took the lead in the 20th minute when Saleng picked out Dlamini in the box and the midfielder made no mistake with his finish.

The Buccaneers had their tails and doubled their advantage seven minutes before halftime when Paseka Mako found Lorch with a neat pass and the forward slotted past home keeper Lloyd Kazapua.

Chippa were much improved after the interval and had a wonderful opportunity to pull a goal back close to the hour mark but Chaine pulled off a great save.

The tempo of the game dropped off considerably as the match went into the dying stages but Pirates held on to secure the vital three points.