Richards Bay FC opened their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Polokwane City at uMhlathuze Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The visitors made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the 19th minute when Maphangule capitalised from a corner kick to give Polokwane City the lead.
Polokwane City doubled their advantage 10 minutes into the second half as Molokwane calmly slid the ball past Richards Bay goalkeeper Ian Otieno, putting the visitors firmly in control.
The Natal Rich Boyz responded in the 69th minute through captain Simphiwe Mcineka, who rose highest to power home a header from a corner and reduce the deficit.
Richards Bay thought they had been handed a lifeline in the 82nd minute when the referee initially awarded a penalty after a handball incident inside the box. However, following discussions, the decision was overturned, denying the hosts a chance to level the score in controversial fashion.
Despite a late push from the home side, Polokwane City held on to secure all three points and begin their league campaign with an important away victory.
image: Richards Bay FC