Richards Bay FC delivered a blow to Kaizer Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup hopes, securing a 2-0 win in their Betway Premiership clash at King Zwelithini Stadium in KZN on Sunday afternoon.
Chiefs face a daunting challenge to secure a top-three finish and maintain their CAF Confederation Cup qualification aspirations as their position continues to slip.
However, they retain hope, with eight league matches remaining and the opportunity to qualify via victory in the Nedbank Cup as they are in the semifinals.
The Soweto giants dictated the tempo of the first half, maintaining strong possession, while Richards Bay struggled to penetrate their defence and create clear chances.”
Ashley Du Preez came close to breaking the deadlock with a header that was saved by Salim Magoola in the 22nd minute.
Chiefs never slowed down as they kept seeking for a goal before halftime, but their efforts were fruitless.
RICHARDS BAY FC AND KAIZER CHIEFS WENT INTO THE INTERVAL LEVEL
The two sides went into the halftime break with the scoreline still 0-0, as they failed to break each other’s back four.
The Natal Rich returned with revitalised confidence, nearing Chiefs’ goal several times before finally securing the lead with Fikile Gcaba scoring in the 48th minute of the match.
Nasreddine Nabi’s boys couldn’t find an equaliser despite taking control of the showpiece.
In the 72nd minute of the game, Yanela Mbuthuma added to the scoreline, giving Richards Bay a 2-0 win and maximum points at home.
As a result, Richards Bay climbed up the table from 15th place to position 11 with 24 points after 22 games. The KZN side will be relieved to have moved out of the relegation zone after the victory over Chiefs.
Meanwhile, the Glamour Boys remain in eighth position on the Betway Premiership table with 29 points from 22 outings.
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