Polokwane City begin Betway Premiership campaign with victory at Richards Bay

Polokwane City coach Bayano Moloto began his tenure with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Richards Bay in the opening match of the Betway Premiership season at Richards Bay Stadium on Sunday.

Moloto was appointed during the off-season after replacing Phuti Mohafe, and his first match in charge could hardly have produced a better outcome as Rise and Shine secured an away win against the Natal Rich Boyz.

Ndamulelo Maphangule put the visitors in front in the first half before Tidimalo Molokwane doubled their advantage shortly after the interval. Richards Bay captain Siphiwe Mcineka reduced the deficit in the second half, but Polokwane held on to claim all three points.

The result gave Richards Bay manager Ronnie Gabriel a losing start to his time as the club’s sole head coach. Gabriel took charge after Papi Zothwane left the club to become assistant coach to Cedric Kaze at Sekhukhune United.

Polokwane made the early breakthrough in the 19th minute. Maphangule rose to head the ball into the net after meeting a set-piece delivery from Giovanni Philander.

Richards Bay struggled to establish any rhythm during the opening period and were fortunate not to fall further behind. Goalkeeper Ian Otieno made several important saves to keep the home side within touching distance.

The hosts came closest to scoring before half-time when Xulu gathered a loose ball inside the penalty area. However, with only Polokwane goalkeeper Lindokuhle Mathebula to beat, Xulu sent the effort wide.

Richards Bay returned from the break with greater urgency as they looked for an equaliser, although their improved energy did not initially lead to clear opportunities. Polokwane defended compactly and limited the space available to the Natal Rich Boyz.

Instead, it was the visitors who extended their lead in the 56th minute. Molokwane reacted quickest to a rebound and finished calmly to make it 2-0.

Richards Bay responded by committing more players forward and eventually found a way back into the contest. Ten minutes after the hour mark, Mcineka powered a header into the net from an in-swinging corner to give the home side hope.

The goal reflected the pressure Richards Bay had begun to exert on Polokwane. With their lead reduced to one, Rise and Shine adopted a low defensive block and concentrated on protecting their advantage.

Richards Bay continued to search for an equaliser, but Polokwane’s organisation allowed them to see out the closing stages. Moloto’s side ultimately secured a 2-1 victory, giving the new coach an impressive start and leaving Gabriel to reflect on defeat in his first match as Richards Bay’s sole head coach.