AMAZULU RELEGATED AFTER HEARTBREAKING LOSS TO MARITZBURG
Amazulu’s dream of Premier Soccer League survival came crashing down on the penultimate day of the season. Despite needing a home win against Maritzburg United and a favor from Kaizer Chiefs against Chippa United, the Durban-based side failed to hold up their end, losing 1-2 in dramatic fashion.
Things got off to a terrible start for Amazulu, with Maritzburg’s Mekoa opening the scoring in just the 8th minute. The early goal set the tone for a tense first half, which ended without further change on the scoreboard.
After the break, Amazulu pushed forward with renewed determination, and were rewarded when Van Heerden equalized in the 72nd minute. With momentum on their side and Maritzburg reduced to 10 men after Mngonyama’s second yellow card, it looked like Amazulu might pull off the escape act.
But it wasn’t to be. Just as they were pushing for a winning goal, they were stunned in the 88th minute by a strike from Mokate, sealing their fate and confirming relegation to the second division.
In parallel action, Moroka Swallows beat Bloemfontein Celtic 1-0, giving themselves a shot at survival via the promotion/relegation play-off.
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs have already clinched the league title, with Mamelodi Sundowns finishing second. Both clubs will play in the CAF Champions League, while Orlando Pirates, who secured third place, will feature in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Amazulu’s relegation marks a disappointing end to a turbulent season for Togolese defender Ouro-Akoriko Sadate and his teammates, who now face the daunting task of bouncing back from the National First Division.
