Richards Bay FC off to a dream start in the playoffs

Richards Bay FC got off to a dream start in the PSL Promotional/Relegation Playoffs after defeating second-tier side AmaTuks 1-0 on Wednesday afternoon.

The Natal Rich Boys welcomed AmaTuks at the King Zwelithini Stadium in KZN as they aim to retain their status in the DStv Premiership.

Richards Bay finished 15th on the log standings in the just-ended season after winning eight league games, drawing six, and losing 16 times. They collected 30 points, seven points away from Cape Town Spurs, who were relegated to the NFD.

Meanwhile, Tuks ended the season in the Motsepe Foundation as runners-up behind Magesi FC, who gained automatic promotion to the SA elite league.

The Tshwane-based side began the playoffs with a 1-0 defeat against another second-division team, Baroka FC.

Richards Bay started the match well, dominating the ball position in the first 30 minutes of the game.

SOMILA NTSUNDWANA FOUND THE BACK OF THE NET FOR RICHARDS BAY

Bay pushed for an early goal, and they found one on the 22nd minute through lanky striker Somila Ntsundwana.

The Vusumuzi Vilakazi-coached team went into the half-time break with a 1-0 lead, leaving AmaTuks with all to do in the second-half.

In the second-half, the Pretoria-based side pushed for an equalising goal however, Richards stood resolute at the back.

Richards Bay held on to its lead to walk away with three points. They are now level on points with the University of Pretoria. Their next playoff encounter will be a home match for Baroka FC, which will aim to return to winning ways.

Bakgakga will have Morgan Mammila shouting instructions on the bench as head coach Dan Malesela is on ‘special leave’.

Baroka made a decision on Malesela after losing their opening match of the playoffs against AmaTuks at Tuks Stadium last Sunday.

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