Orbit College secured a thrilling 2-1 victory against Richards Bay in a Betway Premiership clash at the uMhlathuze Stadium on Friday night. The win propels Mswenko Boys to 12th position in the league standings, marking their third victory of the season. Coach Pogiso Makhoye will be eager to maintain this momentum as they prepare to host Magesi FC on November 1st.
Richards Bay, on the other hand, remain in 10th place after suffering their fifth defeat of the campaign. The KZN side will be looking to bounce back when they face Durban City in the Carling Knockout on October 25th.
Match Summary: Orbit College vs. Richards Bay
Mswenko Boys started strong, taking the lead in the 14th minute through Lethabo Modimoeng, assisted by Thuso Moleleki. However, Richards Bay's Knox Mutizwa, in excellent form, leveled the score in the 39th minute, thanks to a setup by Thabisa Ndelu, bringing the score to 1-1 at halftime.
After the break, Orbit College intensified their pressure. Monnapule Saleng, on loan from Orlando Pirates, restored their lead in the 51st minute with a close-range finish, making it 2-1. There was some debate about a potential offside, but the goal stood.
Richards Bay's co-coaches, Papi Zothwane and Ronnie Gabriel, brought on Frank Mhango in the 73rd minute in an attempt to change the game, but Orbit College held firm.
Saleng's Impact and Coach's Praise
Orlando Pirates loanee Monnapule Saleng has earned praise from coach Pogiso Makhoye for his crucial contribution in helping Orbit College break their 'dark spell of away games'. Saleng's performance has seemingly won over the coach's trust after initial criticism. His return to his former team seeking more playing time proved decisive in securing the victory at the Umhlathuze Sports Complex.
Key Moments:
- 14th minute: Lethabo Modimoeng (Orbit College) scores.
- 39th minute: Knox Mutizwa (Richards Bay) equalizes.
- 51st minute: Monnapule Saleng (Orbit College) scores the winning goal.
This victory is a significant boost for Orbit College as they aim to climb higher in the Betway Premiership standings.