Amazulu secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Richards Bay in a thrilling encounter in Match Round 20 of the Premier Soccer League. The lone goal of the match came in the 69th minute, courtesy of a clinical finish by Taariq Fielies from Amazulu.
The game started with both teams showing great determination and tactical discipline. Amazulu displayed their attacking prowess early on, creating several goal-scoring opportunities, but the Richards Bay defense stood firm to keep the score level.
As the match progressed, the intensity on the field grew, with both sides pushing for the breakthrough goal. It was Taariq Fielies from Amazulu who eventually found the back of the net in the 69th minute, sending the home fans into raptures.
Richards Bay tried to mount a comeback in the closing stages of the game, but the Amazulu defense held firm to secure all three points. The victory sees Amazulu maintain their position in the top half of the Premier Soccer League table, while Richards Bay will be looking to bounce back in their next fixture.
Overall, it was a closely contested match that showcased the competitive nature of South African football. Amazulu will take great confidence from this result as they look to build momentum in the remainder of the season.
Line-ups:
Amazulu
- Richard Ofori Antwi (7.2)
- Thembela Sikhakhane (6.9)
- Ramahlwe Mphahlele (6.9)
- Taariq Fielies (8.3)
- Riaan Welwin Hanamub (7)
- Ethan Duncan Brooks (7.2)
- Ben Motshwari (7)
- Tshepang Moremi (6.7)
- Nkosikhona Radebe (6.7)
- Bongani Zungu (6.7)
- Elmo Ukondja Kambindu (7.2)
Richards Bay
Substitutions:
Amazulu
- Rowan Lancaster Human (Nkosikhona Radebe, 46)
- Mondli Mbanjwa (Bongani Zungu, 73)
- Sandile Mthethwa (Rowan Lancaster Human, 90)
Richards Bay
- Sanele Zulu (Lwandile Sandile Mabuya, 35)
- Wandile Ngema (Siboniso Conco, 46)
- Ntlonelo Bomelo (Moses Mthembu, 80)
Ball possession:
In a pulsating encounter between Amazulu and Richards Bay, Amazulu showcased their dominance with a commanding 57% possession, leaving Richards Bay trailing behind with 43%. The match was a showcase of attacking prowess, with both teams eager to find the back of the net.
Amazulu displayed their shooting accuracy with 10 shots on target, 3 of which were on goal. The standout performer in terms of shots taken was Elmo Ukondja Kambindu, who constantly threatened the Richards Bay defense with his attacking prowess.
On the other hand, Richards Bay managed to notch up 17 shots on target, but only 2 found the back of the net. Lindokuhle Sphuzo Zikhali was the standout player for Richards Bay, showcasing his ability to hit the target with precision.
Overall, the match was a thrilling spectacle of attacking football, with both teams showcasing their shooting abilities. Amazulu’s dominance in possession and accuracy in front of goal ultimately earned them a well-deserved victory against Richards Bay.
Passes:
In a thrilling encounter between Amazulu and Richards Bay, the spotlight shone brightly on the midfield maestros as they showcased their passing prowess on the field. Taariq Fielies of Amazulu stood out with an impressive pass accuracy of 93%, completing a total of 64 passes with precision and finesse. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and find his teammates with ease was a sight to behold.
On the opposing side, Lindokuhle Sphuzo Zikhali of Richards Bay displayed his own passing skills, boasting an 87% pass accuracy from 39 total passes. Despite facing tough opposition, Zikhali remained composed and distributed the ball effectively to keep Richards Bay in the game.
However, it was the key passes that made the difference in this enthralling contest. Ramahlwe Mphahlele of Amazulu provided a crucial key pass, unlocking the defense with his vision and creativity. Nkosikhona Ndaba of Richards Bay was equally influential, delivering 2 key passes to create scoring opportunities for his team.
Overall, the midfield battle was a spectacle of precision passing and intelligent playmaking, with Fielies and Zikhali leading the charge for their respective teams. The fans were treated to a masterclass in ball distribution, as these talented players showcased their ability to control the game through their passing accuracy and key passes.
Defense:
Amazulu and Richards Bay clashed in a tightly contested match that showcased remarkable defensive prowess from both sides. The encounter was marked by a flurry of interceptions and crucial blocks that kept the scoreline level and the spectators on the edge of their seats.
Amazulu’s defensive unit put on a solid display, recording a total of 5 interceptions throughout the match. Thembela Sikhakhane led the charge for Amazulu with 2 interceptions, showcasing his sharp awareness and ability to read the game effectively. Furthermore, Sikhakhane demonstrated his defensive acumen with 1 crucial block, thwarting Richards Bay’s attacking advances.
On the other side, Richards Bay’s defense was equally resolute, amassing a total of 8 interceptions during the game. Lindokuhle Sphuzo Zikhali stood out for Richards Bay with an impressive tally of 3 interceptions, showcasing his tenacity and defensive intelligence. Keegan Shannon Saxin Allan also made a notable contribution with 1 interception, displaying his commitment to breaking down Amazulu’s attacking plays.
Despite the intense defensive battle, both teams managed to keep the opposition at bay and limit scoring opportunities. The match ended in a deadlock, with neither side able to break through the resilient defensive lines.
Overall, the defensive actions on display from both Amazulu and Richards Bay were commendable, highlighting the importance of solid defensive organization and individual brilliance in thwarting opposition attacks. The match was a testament to the significance of defensive contributions in shaping the outcome of a fiercely contested encounter.
Face-to-face:
In a highly contested match between Amazulu and Richards Bay, the battle for possession was intense, with key players standing out in face-to-face duels for the ball. Elmo Ukondja Kambindu from Amazulu and Yamela Mbuthuma from Richards Bay were the standout leaders in this aspect, engaging in a total of 8 and 12 face-to-face fights for the ball, respectively.
The match began with both teams showing determination and commitment, but it was clear that the midfield battle would be crucial in determining the outcome. Kambindu and Mbuthuma’s relentless pursuit of the ball set the tone for the physicality and intensity of the game.
As the match progressed, Kambindu showcased his tenacity and skill in winning crucial duels, while Mbuthuma’s commanding presence in midfield ensured Richards Bay had the upper hand in possession. Their individual performances in the face-to-face duels highlighted their importance to their respective teams.
Despite the fierce competition in the midfield, both players exhibited sportsmanship and professionalism throughout the match. Their duel for supremacy in the center of the pitch added an extra layer of excitement for the fans in attendance.
In the end, Richards Bay emerged victorious, thanks in part to Mbuthuma’s dominant display in the face-to-face duels. However, Kambindu’s efforts for Amazulu did not go unnoticed, as he fought tirelessly to try and turn the tide in his team’s favor.
Overall, the match was a showcase of skill, determination, and competitive spirit, with Kambindu and Mbuthuma leading the way in the battle for possession. Their performances in the face-to-face duels exemplified the true essence of football – a sport where every inch gained on the pitch matters.
Fouls:
- Ben Motshwari (Amazulu) at 5 minute
- Lindokuhle Sphuzo Zikhali (Richards Bay) at 65 minute
Yellow cards:
The last five games (including this match):
- Amazulu –
- Richards Bay –
Top 5 Premier Soccer League scorers:
- Taariq Fielies (1, [])
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Next games:
- Amazulu will play with Stellenbosch. April 19 at 18:00 (GMT), on Danie Craven Stadium.
- Richards Bay will play with Cape Town City. April 18 at 17:30 (GMT), on King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium.
