Orlando Pirates player ratings after Stellenbosch FC win: Makgaka & Hotto dazzle

Was alert on the few occasions he was required.

Mpontshane produced two decent saves in the first half and another to deny Ashley du Preez after the restart.

Best performance as a Pirates player.

Shandu provided more energy, directness and forward sprints, but his crosses need to improve and he was unfortunately substituted after picking up an injury.

Did well to contain Ibraahem Jabaar.

However, Mako did not really impose his authority at either end with Dean van Rooyen ensuring that he didn't deliver crosses into the hosts' box.

Best Pirates defender on the night.

Ndah looked strong on the ball, and defended with confidence and purpose, while being a threat in the opposition's box with his aerial prowess.

Struggled against the pacey Du Preez in the first-half.

However, Nyauza remained on his toes as Stellies started to swing in plenty of crosses after the break and he marshalled the Bucs defend very well.

Marked his return to the team with a good performance.

Motshwari displayed immense composure in tough moments - winning back possession and distributing the ball with aplomb.

Worked hard in midfield - pressing Stellies' midfielders.

However, Makaringe struggled to find passing options after moving forward and he will have to improve his passing.

Another player who produced his best display in a Pirates jersey.

With Linda Mntambo benched, Makgaka took the creative burden upon himself as he cut open the Stellies defence with ease and created chances for his teammates.

He capped off a fine performance with a goal and an assist.

Worked hard up front as he made late runs into the hosts' box.

However, Dzvukamanja lacked the finishing touch and confidence on the ball at times.

A highly productive evening for the Namibian ace.

Hotto was a huge threat for Stellies throughout the game from the left flank which saw him score twice against his favourite oppoents having also netted against Stellenbosch in the first round.

Named Man of the Match.

Brightest spark in the first half - harassing the Stellies defenders.
However, Peprah's impact waned after the break before being replaced by Boitumelo Radiopane.

Came on in the 56th minute and he was rock-solid at the back - timing his tackles well and making a few headed clearances.

The teenager hounded Stellenbosch for the ball like a Terrier after coming on in the 68th minute, but chances didn't fall for him.

Came on with 11 minutes left and his only contrubution was to make an important clearance at the back post.