Sekhukhune United ease past Richards Bay to reach Carling Knockout quarter-finals

Sekhukhune United secured their place in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals with a 3-1 victory over struggling Richards Bay FC on Sunday evening.

Babina Noko entered the tie after winning their previous two league matches, while Richards Bay had failed to win any of their opening eight games of the season, drawing three and losing five.

Sekhukhune controlled the early stages as Richards Bay adopted a defensive approach and looked to absorb the pressure. The visitors were unable to pose a significant threat on the counter-attack, however.

The first clear opportunity arrived midway through the opening half. Tshepo Mokoane reached the byline and delivered towards Ohizu, but the Nigerian striker headed wide.

That was the only notable chance before half-time. Richards Bay offered little in the final third, with the Sekhukhune goalkeeper not required to make a save during the opening 45 minutes.

Sekhukhune broke the deadlock seven minutes after the restart. Ohizu ran on to Nyiko Mobbie’s ball over the top and finished beyond the advancing Ian Otieno.

Richards Bay struggled to produce a response and did not create their first meaningful opening until the 79th minute. Nqaba Xulu created room to enter the box, but lifted his attempt over the crossbar.

The miss proved costly as Thabang Makubo extended Sekhukhune’s lead in the 83rd minute. He evaded several challenges, including one from the goalkeeper, before placing the ball into an unguarded net.

Richards Bay reduced the deficit a minute later when Xulu kept his composure to finish.

Sekhukhune restored their two-goal advantage four minutes afterwards. Substitute Bethel Muzeu headed in a cross from Siphesihle Mkhize to complete the scoring and confirm Babina Noko’s progress to the last eight.

The match summary lists Ohizu as scoring in the 53rd minute, Makubo in the 81st, and Xulu in the 85th.

Next five fixtures

Sekhukhune United travel to Milford next, followed by an away match against Chippa United. They then host Siwelele before visiting AmaZulu FC, with Mamelodi Sundowns their fifth listed opponent.

Richards Bay’s next five matches are away to Kruger United, at home against Stellenbosch FC, away to Marumo Gallants and TS Galaxy, before hosting Orlando Pirates.