Orlando Pirates claimed a 2-0 victory over Cape Town City in their DStv Premiership clash at the DHL Stadium on Wednesday.
City had the first notable chance with Keanu Cupido’s long-range effort saved by Sipho Chaine in the ninth minute.
Jaedin Rhodes also failed to trouble the goalkeeper with his attempt in the 20th minute.
City’s woes deepened when Cupido had to be substituted in the 26th minute due to an earlier tackle by Miguel Timm. Despite the action in midfield, clear goal-scoring opportunities were rare in the first half-hour.
Mabasa had a couple of attempts towards the end of the first half, with his shot saved by Darren Keet in the 34th minute and another long-range effort missing the target. The half ended goalless.
City believed they should have been awarded a penalty in the 52nd minute when Deon Hotto handled the ball, but the referee waved play on.
Pirates then took the lead in the 59th minute as Mofokeng set up Mabasa for the opening goal.
City pressed for an equaliser and felt aggrieved by another potential penalty decision in the 69th minute.
Chaine denied Khanyisa Mayo’s header soon after. However, Pirates extended their lead in the 73rd minute with Mabasa netting his second goal.
Despite late attempts from both sides, including saves from Keet and Chaine, the match ended 2-0 in favour of Orlando Pirates.