The skills of Peter Breen, the dominance of the pack and the all-round efficiency of the midfield set Alhambra-Union up for a convincing win at the North Ground.
Each attacking move from Pirates was met with a solid defensive screen, where the work from Liam Coltman, Graeme Cashmore and Jeremy McKee was outstanding.
Pirates initially held a slight advantage in the set pieces but as the game wore on, Alhambra-Union grew in confidence and dominated both territory and possession.
The Coltman-inspired tight five displayed hunger at the breakdown and set up superb service for halfback Caleb Gray.
Arguably the play of the day came from Breen, who received the ball 40m out, dummied and ran in for an unimpeded try.
Breen's 26 points included the try, five penalties and three conversions. His 100% strike rate continued his form in recent weeks, when he has not missed in 21 kicks at goal.
Pirates were once again well served up front by promising lock Jared Williams, flanker Josh Clark and prop Craig Miller.
Before the game, players from both sides stood for a minute's silence in honour of Pirates life member Jeff Walker.
Alhambra-Union 36 (Tyron Pelasio, Graeme Cashmore, Peter Breen tries; Peter Breen 3 con 5 pen),
Pirates 14 (Adam Gavegan try; Louis Tili 3 pen)
Halftime: Alhambra-Union 13-9.
