Matsatsantsa had Edwin Gyimah sent off in the 44th minute, while Bucs' Rooi Mahamutsa was dismissed in stoppage time at Peter Mokaba Stadium.

The Premiership titans will resume hostilities in the decisive tie at Orlando Stadium on August 25, with the winner set to meet either Moroka Swallows or Mamelodi Sundonwns in the final.

In a dull contest, Pirates' Thulasizwe Mbuyane came close to scoring when he rattled a shot across the face of goal in the 30th minute.

Thabo Matlaba also threatened when he went on a mazy run in the United box but his shot was brilliantly blocked by Bafana Bafana defender Bevan Fransman.

The hosts then suffered a major setback when Gyimah was shown a red card for lashing out at Manto Moholo on the stroke of half-time.

The Sea Robbers, however, failed to make their numerical advantage count, as Siyabonga Sangweni headed over from close range before Mbuyane's low shot forced a sharp save from Ronwen Williams in the 68th minute.

The Soweto giants, who showcased new signing Collins Mbesuma off the bench, finished proceedings without Mahamutsa when he was given his marching orders for a cynical kick on Thabiso Nkoana.