In a dramatic turn of events on Saturday night at Orlando Stadium, relegation-threatened Richards Bay upset second-place chasers Orlando Pirates 1-0.

This crucial victory not only boosted Bay’s survival hopes but also condemned bottom-placed Cape Town Spurs to relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Sanele Barns’ well-placed strike in the 36th minute proved to be the game-winner for Bay. Somila Ntsundwana’s shot deflected off Innocent Maela’s arm, finding its way to Barns, who slotted it past Sipho Chaine. This marked the first time Bay had ever scored against Pirates in the top flight.

With this victory, Bay climbed to 27 points after 28 matches, just two points behind Royal AM and eight clear of Spurs. As Spurs lost their earlier match, their fate was sealed. Mathematically, they cannot catch Bay with only two games remaining.

Although Pirates enjoyed several chances, particularly a missed header by Tshegofatso Mabasa shortly after the goal, they were unable to convert. Patrick Maswanganyi, Pirates’ standout player this season, struggled to find his rhythm as Bay’s disciplined defense closed him down effectively. Maswanganyi also had a close-range shot saved by Bay’s impressive goalkeeper, Salim Magoola, in the 82nd minute.

A controversial moment arose early in the second half when Tshegofatso Mabasa received a fortunate escape from a red card for a dangerous studs-up challenge on Lwandile Mabuya. Referee Christopher Kistooor surprisingly did not even issue a yellow card, a decision that left many baffled.

Bay’s win marked a historic moment, becoming only the third team to clinch victory at Orlando Stadium this season. This result not only secures their top-flight status but also deals a significant blow to Pirates’ hopes of finishing second in the league.

Picture courtesy of Richards Bay