Controversial Monnapule Saleng goal sinks Natal Rich Boys

Monnapule Saleng’s decisive second-half goal earned Orbit College a 2-1 victory over Richards Bay at the uMhlathuze Sports Complex on Friday, ending the Natal Rich Boys’ proud unbeaten home record in the Betway Premiership.

The on-loan Orlando Pirates winger struck five minutes after the restart, tapping home a low cross from Mbulelo Wagaba despite appearing to be in an offside position.

His finish stood, and the visitors held firm under pressure to claim their third win of the campaign, which lifted them to 12th place on the Premiership standings.

Orbit’s early intent was rewarded in the 14th minute when striker Lethabo Modimoeng opened his account for the club. 

The goal came from a well-orchestrated passing move that started from their goalkeeper, slicing through Richards Bay’s press before Thusi Moleleki rolled a pinpoint cross across the face of goal for Modimoeng to tuck home from close range.

Richards Bay, led by co-coach Ronnie Gabriel, took a while to settle into the contest but eventually found their rhythm. Their persistence paid off just before half-time when the evergreen Knox Mutizwa equalised with his third goal since joining the club. 

The former Golden Arrows striker showed great composure, arriving unmarked in the box to meet Thabisa Ndelu’s delicate cross and steer his header beyond the Orbit goalkeeper.

The hosts came out for the second half looking the more likely to take control, but their momentum was quickly broken when Saleng restored Orbit’s advantage with his close-range finish. 

Despite dominating possession thereafter, Richards Bay lacked creativity in the final third and were restricted to long-range efforts and set-pieces that failed to trouble the visitors.

Orbit defended resolutely in the final minutes, frustrating the home side and soaking up wave after wave of pressure until the final whistle confirmed a memorable away win.

The result gives Orbit a timely boost before the two-week break, after which they will host Magesi FC on 1 November. Richards Bay, meanwhile, turn their attention to the Carling Knockout Cup, where they will face Durban City in the quarterfinals next weekend.v