By SABC Sport
21st April 2024
Amakhosi enjoyed the brighter start in front of a vibrant afternoon crowd at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi. Mduduzi Shabalala made his presence felt early, drawing a sharp save from Richards Bay gloveman Salim Magoola.
The recalled Ashley du Preez then had his effort smothered by Magoola on the half-hour mark. Vusumuzi Vilakazi's men remained stout in defence and were the happier of the two sides going down the tunnel 0-0 at the break.
But Richards Bay would finally break the deadlock in the second stanza. Winger Sanele Barns whipped in a corner and captain Simphiwe Mcineka came streaking in for a brilliant glancing header that eluded the diving Bruce Bavuma.
Magoola was then called upon once again for the hosts in the 68th minute. A smart turn and shoot from du Preez took a nasty deflection, looping toward goal. But a backtracking Magoola pulled off an incredible right-handed save and clattered into the post for his efforts.
As the clock ran down, Chiefs rang the changes and fired in long ball after long ball, each thwarted by the Richards Bay defence. Despite 14 shots on target, Cavin Johnson's men could not get past man of the match Magoola.