Bester stunner puts Bucs on top

An injury – time stunner from Rudolf Bester handed Orlando Pirates a crucial 2-1 win over Jomo Cosmos, sending the hosts three points clear at the top of the Premiership table at Orlando Stadium on Monday night.

Two goals in the first half set up an intriguing encounter, but for all their domination, Pirates could not convert any of their chances, until the referee’s optional time.Facing the prospect of dropped points at home, Bester stepped up with a sensational goal from 25 metres out that gave Cosmos goalkeeper Avril Phali no chance.The Buccaneers climbed to the top of the standings with 46 points from 24 games.Mamelodi Sundowns, three points behind in second place, held a game in hand and are set to face Black Leopards in Polokwane tonight. The home side opened the scoring early, as Bongane Ndulula capitalised on some shaky defence and stole the ball from Ofusu Appiah, making no mistake with his finish from close range to put Pirates 1-0 ahead.The Buccaneers began to exert their authority on the game, and the visitors had to rely on scraps of possession.Pirates were quick on attack and enjoyed more territory, while Cosmos looked clueless when they moved forward.That was until a 25th minute thunderbolt against the run of play saw Cosmos level the scores when Siyabonga Nhlapho reeled off a stunner from almost 30 metres out that rocketed into the top left corner of the net.Pirates however dominated the game and after numerous chances in the second half, Bester, struck in the dying stages, leaving Cosmos firmly rooted to the bottom of the table. – Nampa-Sapa