Richards Bay FC's unbeaten home record in the Betway Premiership has been shattered by ORBIT College in a controversial 2-1 defeat at the uMhlathuze Sports Complex. The match, played on Friday, saw Monnapule Saleng score the decisive goal for ORBIT College, but the goal was marred by controversy as he appeared to be in an offside position when he received the cross.
Controversial Goal Costs Richards Bay
The controversial goal came just five minutes after the restart, when Mbulelo Wagaba sent in a low cross that Saleng tapped home. Despite appearing to be offside, the goal was allowed to stand, much to the dismay of the Richards Bay players and fans.
ORBIT College had taken an early lead in the 14th minute through Lethabo Modimoeng, who finished off a well-worked passing move. Richards Bay, however, found their way back into the game just before half-time when Knox Mutizwa headed in a cross from Thabisa Ndelu.
Richards Bay Dominated Possession
Despite dominating possession in the second half, Richards Bay struggled to create clear-cut chances and were ultimately unable to find an equalizer. The defeat leaves them in tenth place on the Premiership standings, while ORBIT College moves up to twelfth.
Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel will be disappointed with the result, particularly given the controversial nature of ORBIT College's winning goal. He will be looking for his team to bounce back in their next match.
- ORBIT College's Monnapule Saleng scored a controversial goal.
- Lethabo Modimoeng scored the first goal for ORBIT College.
- Knox Mutizwa scored for Richards Bay.
- Richards Bay dominated possession in the second half.