Richards Bay’s Nqaba Xulu explains press that led to Brandon Petersen error

Richards Bay FC striker Nqaba Xulu has revealed why he maintained an intense press on Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen during Wednesday evening’s 2-2 draw at Princess Magogo Stadium.

Xulu’s pressure helped create the opening goal of the match, after Petersen was unable to clear the ball under pressure. The Richards Bay forward capitalised on the mistake and went on to score twice as the hosts held Chiefs to a draw in rainy conditions in Kwa Mashu.

The result proved costly for the Soweto giants, who dropped valuable points in the Betway Premiership title race and slipped to third in the table, behind Mamelodi Sundowns. Chiefs had to recover from behind twice to secure a share of the points against Richards Bay FC.

Lebo Maboe and Siphesihle Ndlovu scored for Kaizer Chiefs, while Xulu’s brace earned Richards Bay a third draw of the season.

Petersen’s mistake attracted criticism from supporters, particularly because he is the club captain. The incident was also his third error as Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper, with Xulu’s decision to press immediately putting him under pressure at a pivotal moment.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, Xulu said the approach had been discussed by the Richards Bay coaching staff, although it was designed to be used only in specific situations.

“Regarding the press, we had also planned it,” Xulu said.

“But it was based on certain moments. In that specific moment, I saw that since the field is wet, it was a ball I felt I could reach faster because if he (Petersen) takes a touch, it would run away from him.”

The wet playing surface at Princess Magogo Stadium was a key factor in Xulu’s decision. He believed Petersen would struggle to control the ball if he took an additional touch, giving the striker an opportunity to close him down and force an error.

The draw extended Richards Bay’s winless run to four matches, although the point moved the side up to 12th in the Betway Premiership log table.

Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, were unable to keep pace with rivals Orlando Pirates at the top of the standings. Having fallen behind in Kwa Mashu, Amakhosi fought back to avoid defeat but ultimately surrendered more ground in the race near the top of the table.

Their next match will be a home fixture against Siwelele FC on 5 September. The game will be played at Royal Bafokeng Stadium in the North West.

Richards Bay will take confidence from the performance of Xulu, whose pressing created the first goal before he completed his brace. For Chiefs, the draw leaves renewed attention on Petersen after another costly mistake in goal.