Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riviero heralded the performances of goal-scorers Monnapule Saleng and Thabiso Lebitso in Saturday’s 3-2 Premier Soccer League over Kaizer Chiefs in Soweto.

Forward Ashley du Preez scored to first as Chiefs took the lead in the sixth minute. Saleng leveled the score in the 24th minute before du Preez struck again in the 44th.

Lebitso again leveled the score in the 58th minute before Saleng put Pirates ahead for the first time in the 68th.

“Both players had really outstanding performances today,” said Riviero.

“Scoring goals in a derby they are going straight to the history books. I’m so happy for both for different reasons.

“Thabiso is an excellent guy, working hard to make it possible to play for Pirates.

“Saleng is doing everything to be Saleng again and it looks like he’s coming back.”

Former Kaizer Chiefs star Doctor Khumalo,  meanwhile, rued Saturday’s defeat to Pirates despite having the lead twice.

“Both the players and the technical team couldn’t manage the game. You can’t be scoring goals and allowing a team to score,” said Khumalo.

“Somewhere, somehow, either it’s the bench or the information they are getting is not corresponding.

“Like I said, game management – all the players didn’t understand what exactly the coach needed.

“But to be honest and precise – get quality players.”

The result pushed Pirates to second position on the 2023-24 PSL points table with 33 points. Chiefs are in seventh position with 29 points.