Orlando Pirates cantered to a 2-0 win in their Telkom Knockout quarter-final against Maritzburg United on Saturday.

 

The opening exchanges were underwhelming from both sides as they struggled to create any momentum, giving away the ball too cheaply.

 

Bucs started finding their feet as the minutes ticked away and found their opening goal in the 25th minute.

 

The goal came out of the blue when an innocuous ball forward found Kermit Erasmus who smashed the bouncing ball into the back of the net with a great half-volley from a tight angle.

 

However, Bucs by no means looked comfortable in defence. Siyabonga Mpontshane looked unconvincing between the sticks and United threatened to equalise on a few occasions.

 

The hosts made the perfect start to the second half as they won a penalty in the 47th minute thanks to a handball from John Paintsil. Mpho Makola's spot-kick was saved by Vries but the rebound fell for the Bucs man who slotted it on the second attempt.

 

Bucs were content with their two-goal lead and played within themselves to stay compact in defence, negating United's attacks.

 

United had their best chance of the half in the last seven minutes when Ashley Hartog did brilliant work to put Kurt Lentjies through but his shot went wide and Bucs strolled to victory.