Richards Bay FC claimed a 1–0 win over Kaizer Chiefs FC in a sold-out Umhlathuze Sports Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Chiefs were forced into a late change before kick-off after Inacio Miguel suffered an injury in the warm-up and was replaced by Bradley Cross. The visitors also handed Nkanyiso Shinga his debut, also welcoming back Sibongeseni Mthethwa , who captained the side after Miguel’s injury.
Richards Bay looked sharp from the start. Gumede had an early sight at goal in the 14th minute as the hosts pressed forward.
Midway through the half, Bvuma pushed away a driven effort before Mahala fired the rebound wide with the goal at his mercy.
Chiefs’ best moment before the interval came from a set-piece in the closing minutes of the first half, but McCarthy could not guide his header on target.
The visitors introduced fresh legs in the second half, including Mduduzi Shabalala and Glody Lilepo, but clear chances remained limited.
The decisive moment came in the 69th minute when a quick break released Gumede, who kept his composure to slot home the only goal of the match.
Chiefs searched for a response late on, but Richards Bay remained organised to see out the result and secure maximum points.
Elsewhere, in matches happening simultaneously, Siwelele shared the spoils with Stellies in Bloemfontein, while Orbit College recorded their first win of the year, beating TS Galaxy 2–1 in Mbombela. Goals from Khoto and Lesedi Kapinga secured the victory, with Ngwenya grabbing a consolation for The Rockets.
Images: Richards Bay FC (Facebook)