PLAYING against the team lying second on the NFD log, Richards Bay FC dominated the game but lack of finishing saw them share the spoils in a goalless draw against Mbombela United on Saturday.
In front of their devout fans, the Natal Rich Boyz could and should have bagged half a dozen goals in a fast-flowing, open encounter between two classy teams.
As early as the fifth minute, superb NRB interplay down the right saw the ball squared into the path of Khayelihle Shozi but his shot sailed far over the crossbar.
Alas for the talented young man, this was to become an unfortunate pattern in what was for him a miserable day in terms of shooting.
Photo: Dave Savides
His general play was full of effort and hard work, and both he and Sphelele Mkhulise on the opposite flank saw an incredible amount the ball – but both produced very little end product.
Poor decision making was the main weakness, either overdoing the driving runs and failing to find the man in a better position, or being reluctant to pull the trigger when shots presented themselves.
The entertaining first half ended moments after a terrific strike by Kulegani Madondo was brilliantly tipped over the bar by Mbombela keeper Ludick Mkhatshwa when for all money it was flying into the top corner.
Photo: Dave Savides
Pressure
The Bay boyz went into the shed knowing they were playing well and coach Sello Ntuli, who remains unbeaten after three games, sent on Sbonelo Ngubane for the second stanza in the hopes of converting the pressure into goals.
This started a bombardment of the opposition goalmouth, with Shozi spurning at least four golden chances, the tireless Mike Gumede heading just wide, Paseka Sekese off target after a clever Thabiso
Nkoana back-heel flick and Menzi Hlophe’s fierce left-footed strike missing by millimetres.
Photo: Dave Savides
But the goal just wouldn’t come and the NRB lads were unlucky when Sekese was brought down just outside the box after sliding the ball into a three-on-one situation with the ref failing to allow the advantage and what would surely have been the winning goal.
On defence, mention must be made of man of the match Katleho Maphate, whose fearless, well-timed tackles nullified many potential dangers.
Photo: Dave Savides
A point against the high-riding visitors might be considered a good result, but Sello’s camp will know they should have had the Mbombela bus filled with tears on the long drive home to Nelspruit.
Photo: Dave Savides
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