Yesterday, newly promoted Richards Bay defeated Royal AM 1-0 at Chatsworth Stadium to move to the top of the DStv Premiership standings.
In the 27th minute, Luvuyo Memela capitalized on misunderstanding in the Royal AM box to give his team the lead.
After his initial shot was blocked by Patrick Nyame, the experienced winger pounced on the loose ball as it bounced between defenders and fired past the Cameroon international to give the visitors the lead.
Royal AM entered the match seeking a third consecutive league victory and to extend their lead over Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu, who were hot on their heels.
Royal AM was without the seasoned duo of Ricardo Nascimento and Thabo Matlaba at the back, two players who have provided the squad with a firm foundation, therefore it was no surprise when the team succumbed in the first half due to misunderstanding.
As expected, the hosts dominated possession and generated a few half-chances, but struggled to penetrate a resolute Natal Rich Boyz defensive rearguard.
Royal AM could have had the perfect start to the second half if Richards Bay’s goal line defense hadn’t been so outstanding.
Mfundo Thikazi, who had been quiet up until that moment, raced through defenders and drove a powerful pass across the goal for Motebang Sera to meet, but his attempted tap-in was stopped by a defender, further upsetting Royal AM.
Richards Bay have adapted rather admirably to life in the premier division.
Having conceded just three goals in their first six matches, TS Galaxy is the only team to have a better record than coach Pitso Dladla’s squad, who have conceded just three goals.
Jabulani Ncobeni, Andre de Jong, and Andile Mpisane, a surprise selection on the bench, were among the substitutes being considered by the Royal AM coaching staff as the hour mark approached.
However, Richards Bay prevailed over their provincial rivals and ascended to the top of the log.
Royal AM will switch from local to continental action this weekend when they travel to Eswatini for a Caf Confederation Cup match against Mbabane Highlanders, while Richards Bay will have a two-week rest before facing TS Galaxy.