Orlando Pirates went top of the Absa Premiership as they came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Bloemfontein Celtic at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.

Pirates came into the game knowing that the three points could prove vital in their bid for the league title.

Celtic on the other hand were looking to have a say of their own on the title race after holding top of the table Sundowns to a goalless draw over the weekend.

A frantic start to the game saw both teams have early chances to open the scoring but Celtic’s Mzwanele Mahashe and Pirates skipper Happy Jele both showed their defensive strength to snuff out the opponents attack. 

Pirate then begun to stamp their possession based style onto the game but were met by a solid and well organised opponent who were doing well to restrict any opportunities.

The Bucs finaly had a ln opening goal after 33 minutes but Vincent Pule’s long range strike was easily dealt with by Patrick Tignyemb. 

Then just four minutes later and very much against the run of play the visitors opened the scoring as Tshepo Rikhotso finished from close range after Pirates failed to deal with a corner. 

1-0 to the visitors at the break with Pirate needing a big second stanza.

The Sea Robbers quickly fell into their rhythm in the second half, but were still fi ding it difficult to break down their disciplined opponents.

The game though eventually began to open up and Thembinkhosi Lorch looked to capitalise on the spaces but on two occasions the winger was denied by the Celtic’s keeper.

Pirates eventually got their leveler with 10 minutes to play as Justin Shonga went on a magnificent run, beating three defenders before setting up Luvuyo Memela who made no mistake with his finish.

The home side threw men forward in hope of grabbing a late winner, but could not find the vital goal as the match finished 1-1.