AmaZulu secured bragging rights in the KZN Derby after beating Richards Bay 2-1 at Princess Magogo Stadium on Friday evening.
The encounter started cautiously, with AmaZulu earning the first corner of the game in the sixth minute, although the set-piece failed to produce an opening.
Usuthu came close to breaking the deadlock in the eighth minute after a mistake from Otieno nearly allowed Maqokolo to capitalise, but the rich boys survived the scare.
The Natal Rich Boyz threaten, with Nqaba Xulu seeing his 27th-minute effort hit the side netting.
AmaZulu thought they had taken the lead a minute later when a corner found its way into the net, but the goal was ruled out after a foul in the build-up.
Richards Bay goalkeeper and defence were kept busy as the first half progressed, while Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya came close in the 36th minute when his attempted bicycle kick went just wide.
AmaZulu eventually found the breakthrough six minutes after the restart.
In the 51st minute, Ngwenya rose highest to meet a cross that had deflected off Mcineka’s foot, directing his header into the back of the net to give Usuthu a 1-0 lead.
AmaZulu continued to push for a second, but Ngwenya was unable to capitalise on a golden opportunity in the 69th minute after being beautifully set up.
The visitors made their first change shortly afterwards, with Gape Moralo replacing Langa Mhlongo, who was forced off with an injury.
Richards Bay were handed a route back into the game in the 77th minute when Lundi Mahala was fouled inside the box, resulting in a penalty.
Moses stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to level the scores at 1-1.
The equaliser, however, did not last long.
AmaZulu restored their lead in the 81st minute when Nkosikhona Radebe finished from a through ball by Maqokolo, scoring his first goal for the club and putting Usuthu back in front.
Richards Bay introduced Sithebe Philani and Simelane Sanele as they searched for another equaliser, but AmaZulu held firm.
The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 victory for AmaZulu, handing Usuthu the KZN Derby bragging rights and a memorable three points at Princess Magogo Stadium.