By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
AmaZulu FC returned to the winning ways with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Richards Bay at the at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium on Friday evening.
Richards Bay’s Nqaba Xulu registered the first notable scoring opportunity of the match, watching his close-range header go narrowly wide after being assisted by Lwandile Mabuya with a cross in the third minute.
AmaZulu grew into the game as the midway point of the first-half approached as Siyanda Hlangabeza and Sandile Mthethwa posing threat to Richards Bay.
Usuthu came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock in the 29th minute after Athini Maqokola struck the crossbar with a shot inside the area following a corner.
While possession was relatively even, AmaZulu grew in confidence during the latter stages of the half with Mthethwa, Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya and Langelihle Mhlongo producing quick succession shots at goal moments before the break.
AmaZulu continued to apply pressure at the restart and managed to take the lead in 51st minute. With the ball swung into the mix, Ngwenya executed a well-taken header that sailed into the top right corner.
The Natal Rich Boyz upped the tempo in search of the equaliser, which also included replacing Sanele Barns for Lundi Mahala to bolster the attack for the final 30 minutes of the second half.
Mahala’s impact paid off with 12 minutes to play when he won his side a penalty after being fouled by Gape Moralo. Moses Mthembu stepped up and calmly slotted home to level matters for the home side, setting up a lively finish.
However, the lead only lasted two minutes as Usuthu restored their lead as Nkosikhona Radebe got the winning goal with a close-range finish, leaving Richards Bay without a win after five matches.
Meanwhile Marumo Gallants’ search for a first win the Betway Premiership continues after coming from behind twice to salvage a 2-2 draw against Polokwane City on Friday evening.