Betway Premiership: Saleng winner gives Orbit College first away win

An early second half goal from Orlando Pirates loanee Monnapule Saleng gave Betway Premiership newcomers Orbit College their first win away from home on Friday with a 2-1 result at Richards Bay.

Saleng was left with an empty net to finish into in the 51st minute when Richards Bay goalkeeper Ian Otieno failed to claim Mbulelo Wagaba’s low hard cross. It was a disappointing result for the hosts at the Umhlathuze Sports Complex, who saw their opponents capitalize on the few changes they had to snatch all three points.

Orbit College got off to a strong start, taking the lead in the 15th minute following a well-executed counter that ended with Lethabo Modimoeng’s finish in off the crossbar from Thuso Moleleki’s cross. After some hopeful efforts from long range, the Natal Rich Boyz managed to equalize with Knox Mutizwa’s goal from a perfect cross by Thabisa Ndelu.

But after Saleng punched in to restore the lead for the visitors soon after the interval, another deficit proved too much for Richards Bay to come back from. Forward Gabadinho Mhango inspired the hosts’ attack after coming on as a substitute but the Malawian was denied twice by Orbit College goalkeeper Sabelo Nkomo, first corraling a free kick before tipping a fierce effort from the Malawian over the bar.

The tenth round of matches will continue on Saturday and Sunday with three games over the weekend. AmaZulu hosts Durban City before TS Galaxy travel to Magesi FC on Saturday before Sunday’s sole match will see Marumo Gallants host Chippa United.