Siphesihle Ndlovu earns Kaizer Chiefs a point in Richards Bay thriller

Kaizer Chiefs came from behind twice to draw 2-2 with Richards Bay in an entertaining Betway Premiership encounter at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu on Wednesday night, with Siphesihle Ndlovu’s spectacular late finish rescuing a point for Amakhosi.

Chiefs had travelled to KwaZulu-Natal hoping to end their difficult record in the region, but found themselves chasing the game after Richards Bay made a fast start in wet conditions.

A steady drizzle had begun shortly before kick-off and the slippery surface appeared to contribute to a combative opening, with the ‘home’ side particularly aggressive in the early challenges. The weather did little to quieten the Richards Bay supporters, who maintained their vocal backing throughout the match.

The Natal Rich Boyz went ahead in the eighth minute after taking advantage of uncertainty in the Chiefs defence. Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen attempted to control a back pass before clearing, but Nqaba Xulu intervened and the ball deflected into the net.

Kaizer Chiefs responded with sustained pressure and were given the opportunity to equalise nine minutes later. The visitors were awarded a penalty when the ball struck Thembela Sikhakhane’s hand inside the area.

Lebohang Maboe made no mistake from the spot, sending the ball beyond Ian Ottieno and into the roof of the net to make it 1-1.

Richards Bay continued to threaten whenever they broke forward, with Xulu proving a powerful and persistent presence. Their forceful approach also saw them collect three yellow cards during the first 30 minutes.

Petersen kept out several attempts from distance, but he was unable to prevent Richards Bay from regaining the lead shortly before half-time. In the 39th minute, Xulu rose to meet a corner and produced a towering header which looped over the goalkeeper and into the net.

Chiefs controlled more of the territory and possession after the interval, particularly through their right-hand side. However, they struggled to turn a series of promising deliveries into clear chances as Richards Bay defended their advantage.

Thulane Gumede came close to adding a third when he unleashed a powerful shot that was pushed away by Petersen. He was later presented with an even better opening, breaking through with only the goalkeeper to beat, but sent his effort narrowly wide.

With time running out, Chiefs introduced Wandile Duba in an attempt to increase the pressure. Substitute Dillan Solomons also continued to provide quality service from the right, repeatedly sending dangerous crosses into the penalty area.

The equaliser finally arrived in the 77th minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Asanele Velebayi pulled the ball back perfectly from the left and Ndlovu met it with a fierce strike that flew into the roof of the net.

The goal gave Kaizer Chiefs renewed belief that they could complete the comeback, but Richards Bay held out during the closing stages to secure a share of the points.

For Chiefs, the result extended another frustrating evening in KwaZulu-Natal, despite twice recovering from behind.