ORLANDO Pirates coach Rudi Krol has highlighted the ability of creating goals and converting them as key to realising their dream of winning the prestigious Nedbank Cup, which has eluded his team.

Bucs cruised through to the quarterfinals after brushing aside National First Division battlers United FC 3-1 at Seisa Ramabodu Stadium on Saturday night.

Pirates first goal was a Lungisani Ndlela own-goal. The striker, in an effort to clear a dangerous corner kick, headed past his own goalkeeper Nkosana Maseko early in the first stanza. Oupa Manyisa and Dikgang Mabalane scored the other goals for the visitors in a match watched by a poor crowd.

"If we can maintain our momentum in the middle of the park and not being wasteful upfront, there is no doubt that we can go all the way and win this tournament. It's important to be consistent in cup matches. Over and above that we must be disciplined and avoid getting unnecessary bookings that could work against us,"' said a delighted Krol.

The Dutchman said victory over United was a morale-booster ahead of Wednesday's tough league fixture against relegation-bound Moroka Swallows.

Former Kaizer Chiefs' player Junior Khanye reduced the deficit in the second half when he beat Bucs' goalie Senzo Meyiwa with a brilliant grass-cutter.

However, United went to sleep thereafter and allowed Pirates to get an insurance goal through Mabalane who was set up by Tlou Segolela.

United coach Ashwin Sutton expressed satisfaction with his lads' performance despite their elimination from the tournament. The Botshabelo-based team performed better in second stanza, creating a few scoring opportunities. "The players gave their best on the night and they relished the challenge to take on big guns such as Pirates," Sutton said.

"We expected a tough match against Bucs because they boast quality players. An encouraging factor was that we managed to score a stunning goal and I hope the boys will build on that positive spirit in their remaining league matches."