Kaizer Chiefs make it three from three with narrow win over Richards Bay

Gaston Sirino came off the bench to score the decisive goal, securing the Soweto giants’ third successive league win and moving them up to second on the log with nine points from three matches.

Richards Bay, meanwhile, slumped to the bottom of the table, still without a point after three outings.

Chiefs dominated the majority of possession and carved out the better opportunities throughout the match but were left frustrated by missed chances in the final third. Glody Lilepo had two early opportunities to break the deadlock — first in the 12th minute from a Thabo Cele through-ball that was saved by goalkeeper Salim Magoola, and then again eight minutes later, firing over the bar following a good passage of play from Siphesihle Ndlovu.

Wandile Duba was also unable to capitalise on a dangerous Bradley Cross delivery in the 25th minute, while Thabiso Monyane’s setup for Mduduzi Shabalala in the 38th minute ended in another wayward effort.

The home side suffered a setback before the break when Aden McCarthy picked up a hamstring injury and was replaced by Zitha Kwinika. Despite some late pressure from the Natal Rich Boys, the Amakhosi defence held firm to keep the first half goalless.

Chiefs made a double substitution at the interval, bringing on Sirino and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo for Ndlovu and Sibongiseni Mthethwa. The change added immediate attacking impetus. Within two minutes, Sirino nearly turned provider, finding Lilepo in the box, but Richards Bay managed to clear.

Duba had a golden chance to put Chiefs ahead in the 53rd minute with a close-range header that went wide. But the young striker quickly redeemed himself moments later, combining neatly with Sirino at the edge of the area. The Uruguayan didn’t hesitate, unleashing a thunderous strike into the top corner — a goal worthy of winning any match.

From that point on, Chiefs managed the game well, moving the ball confidently and limiting Richards Bay’s opportunities to mount a comeback. Lilepo could have doubled the lead late in the game, but his header failed to find the target.

Ultimately, the single goal was enough to secure all three points for Cavin Johnson’s side, who now turn their attention to a high-stakes encounter against reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns next Wednesday at FNB Stadium.