A Riaan Hanamub wonder strike was enough to secure maximum points for AmaZulu FC in the midweek KZN Derby against Golden Arrows on Tuesday. With the narrow win, AmaZulu moved to third place in the Betway Premiership table.
The King Zwelithini Stadium hosted its first KZN derby of the season as the two Durban-based sides sought redemption after suffering defeats in their last league games. 22-year-old Liam Bern registered his third successive appearance for Usuthu, since making his debut against Siwelele FC.
The Durban sides had an energetic start, both employing an aggressive attacking approach within the first 10 minutes. However, the visitors, AmaZulu, had a forced substitution in the 26th minute, with goalkeeper Darren Johnson replaced by Olwethu Mzimela after sustaining an injury. Johnson appeared to have pulled a hamstring as he hobbled off, clutching the back of his thigh.
The first half ended dramatically when Arrows striker Junior Dion missed a penalty in the 45th minute, hitting the crossbar after the award. The league’s top goal scorer, Dion, was searching for his eighth goal of the season.
HANAMUB MAGIC SEALS DERBY GLORY FOR USUTHU
AmaZulu wasted no time showing their intent for the second half. They made two substitutions at half-time. Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya was replaced by Pule Ekstein, and Wandile Dube came on for Minenhle Ngcobo.
The visitors took the lead in the 56th minute with a masterclass finish from left back Riaan Hanamub. A moment of individual brilliance for the Namibian, who cut in from the left to execute an exquisite far-post finish from the edge of the box.
The move started with the ever-lively Pule Ekstein, who danced in the middle of the park, creating a pocket of space before releasing the ball. He found Bern, whose quick switch of play located Hanamub wide on the left flank.
The Namibian international took a purposeful touch, surveying his options as the Arrows defender closed in. Then, with a flash of ingenuity, he executed a quick stepover, shifting the ball to his weaker right foot.
The defender, perhaps expecting a cross or a cut-back onto the left, hesitated. It was all the invitation Hanamub needed. Without a moment’s hesitation, he unleashed an absolute thunderbolt. The strike flew with incredible power and precision towards the far-left post. Arrows goalkeeper Xolani Ngcobo could not do anything to stop it.
The win saw Arthur Zwane’s side move to 24 points after securing seven wins, three draws, and four losses. Meanwhile, Arrows suffered their eighth defeat of the season. They dropped to 10th place after winning five and drawing one of their first 14 games of the season.
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