Orlando Pirates secure slender 1-0 victory over Richards Bay FC

Orlando Pirates secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Richards Bay FC in a tightly contested Betway Premiership match on Sunday afternoon at King Zwelithini Stadium.

Kabelo Dlamini, coming off the bench, proved to be the match-winner with a decisive goal in latter stages.

The Buccaneers made three changes to their previous match’s lineup, with Olisa Ndah, Kabelo Dlamini, and Monnapule Saleng being replaced by Innocent Maela, Makhehlene Makhaula, and Gilberto.

Meanwhile, Richards Bay took off Tlakusani Mthethwa, Somila Ntsundwana, Yanela Mbuthuma and Siboniso Conco for Siyethemba Sithebe, Justice Figareido, Thabang Sibanyoni and Thabani Dube.

The early stages of the match were marked by a lack of scoring chances as both teams struggled to find their footing. Tshegofatso Mabasa had a shot blocked in the penalty area after receiving a brilliant pass from Relebohile Mofokeng.

The home team gradually gained momentum in the game, putting pressure on Pirates who were solid at the back.

Unlike their typical aggressive style, Ezimnyama Ngenkani seemed sluggish and lacked the usual intensity, at times, in their attacking play.

With a few minutes ticking down before halftime, Ian Otieno pulled off a stunning save, deflecting Deon Hotto’s curling effort from outside the box.

ORLANDO PIRATES’ STRONG COMEBACK IN SECOND HALF

Riveiro’s side made a strong comeback in the second half, taking control of possession as they aimed for an early goal. The right flank, featuring Gilberto, was largely ineffective, while the visiting team capitalised on the contributions of Hotto and Mofokeng on the left side in their pursuit of a breakthrough.

Natal Rich Boyz nearly lit a fire under the game when Figareido’s shot was kept out by Chaine’s defensive masterclass.

He returned later and, once more, skillfully navigated the Buccaneers before taking another shot that missed the target.

Otieno made a remarkable double save, first thwarting Mofokeng’s initial attempt and subsequently denying Hotto, who had capitalized on the rebound.

In the 82nd minute, the substitute Kabelo Dlamini scored from the free-kick spot on the D-line to help the Soweto giants claim maximum points from home.

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