Orlando Pirates gave their hopes of finishing second in the PSL this season a significant boost with 1-0 victory over SuperSport United at the Orlando stadium on Saturday.

Tapelo Xoki scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot in the 79th minute with the Buccaneers moving to within two points of their opponents in the league standings as both sides jostle to end the campaign behind champions-elect Mamelodi Sundowns.

Both teams failed to create any clear-cut openings in the first half with the best opportunity falling to Pirates striker Kermit Erasmus, who had his goal-bound effort blocked by Thulani Hlatshwayo.

Matsatsantsa also some half-chances with Pirates loanee Zakhele Lepasa almost coming back to bite the hand that feeds him but he rushed his shot wide.

Pirates were let down by poor execution in the final third of the pitch after the interval as they let slip plenty of good opportunities.

Against the run of play, SuperSport's Patrick Mswanganyi raced his way into the box but the midfielder's whot was blocked by goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

The hosts were then awarded a penalty when Thathayaone Ditlhokwe brought down Monnapule Saleng in the box.

Xoki stepped up and made no mistake from the spot as he sent Ricardo Goss the wrong and wrap up the maximum points for the Soweto side.

Pirates' win also means Sundowns are just two points from being officially crowned PSL champions for the sixth consecutive campaign.

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