Orlando Pirates were held to a 0-0 draw against Esperance in the Caf Champions League Group B clash at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday evening.

Pirates came into the game top of the group on goal difference after accumulating four points in their first two games, the same number of points as the visitors from North Africa.

The Sea Robbers drew their first game of the group 0-0 away against FC Platinum, but followed that up with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Horoya at the Orlando Stadium.

Similarly, Esperance drew their first game away against Horoya before they eased to a 2-0 home win over FC Platinum.

The group situation placed some extra importance on the clash, with the winner undoubtedly taking control of the group.

The Buccaneers started the game brightly as they dominated possession, but were struggling to break through the defensive line of their opposition.

Esperance, on the other hand, were struggling to impose themselves on the game, as the returning Wayne Sandilands had nothing to do in the opening stages.
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The home side arguably could have been awarded a spot-kick in the 27th minute when Thembinkhosi Lorch was on the receiving end of a wild challenge inside the box, but the referee waved away the appeals.

Pirates then thought they had opened the scoring on the stroke of half-time when Justin Shonga went through on goal and chipped over the out-rushing keeper. The linesman, however, raised his flag despite replays indicating that Shonga was well onside.

0-0 at the break with the game firmly in the balance.

The game fell back into the same pattern as the first half after the break, with Pirates having all of the ball while Esperance sat back and kept their shape, making it difficult for the Soweto giants to break them down.

Pirates were struggling to create clear-cut chances, but finally had an opening in the final 15 minutes, but Innocent Maela failed to control Augustine Mulenga’s back-heel with the goal gaping.

Alfred Ndgenae then almost snatched a late winner for the Buccaneers as he ghosted in at the back post from a corner, but the defender’s header hit the side netting.

0-0 the final score as Pirates were held at home in a result which would’ve pleased the visitors more.

Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/ BackpagePix