Richards Bay midfielder Sanele Barns came back to haunt his former team Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday evening, scoring a crucial goal in the 2-1 defeat that ended Stellenbosch’s eight-match unbeaten streak. The match took place at the King Zwelethini Stadium, with the Natal Rich Boyz desperate to snap a three-match losing streak.
The hosts were eternally grateful for the three points, which helped them regain momentum in the league. Stellenbosch were stunned by a familiar face within the first six minutes when Barns struck against his former team to hand Richards Bay an early lead. However, the joy was short-lived, as Genino Palace made a late run into the box before firing Stellenbosch level just four minutes later.
Turning Point in the Match
The teams remained deadlocked at 1-1 until the halftime break. But Richards Bay regained the advantage, which they held until the final whistle, when the home team were awarded a penalty after a melee in the Stellenbosch box. Moses Mthembu took on the responsibility and stepped up to stop, sending Stellies goalkeeper Sage Stephens the wrong way to score the decisive goal in this encounter.
Other League Matches
Gavin Hunt’s team tried to respond through a long-range effort from Devin Titus in the 65th minute that forced Ian Otieno into a strong save. But ultimately, they had nothing to show on a frustrating night in KwaZulu-Natal with both the Stellenbosch players and coach Hunt making their intentions clear to the officials after the final whistle had gone. Meanwhile, Chippa United earned an invaluable 1-0 victory over Siwelele, courtesy of a 57th-minute goal from Sinoxolo Kwayiba.
Magesi FC also gave their chances of avoiding relegation a huge boost with a 3-0 walloping of fellow strugglers Marumo Gallants. Striker Tholang Mashigo opened the scoring for Magesi FC before substitute Motsie Matima doubled the scoring just five minutes after entering the fray. The victory was sealed with a third goal by Thabang Sibanyoni. For more information on the Premier Soccer League,
- Richards Bay won 2-1 against Stellenbosch FC
- Chippa United earned a 1-0 victory over Siwelele
- Magesi FC won 3-0 against Marumo Gallants
