By Michael Madyira
Baroka FC are back in contention for Premier Soccer League promotion following Saturday’s 1-1 play-off draw between University of Pretoria and Richards Bay at Tuks Stadium.
An own goal by AmaTuks goalkeeper Edward Maova six minutes before the half-time break gave Richards Bay the lead.
But Kamogelo Pheeane made amends by scoring for Pretoria University three minutes into the second half to help his side claim a point.
It was a match where AmaTuks finished a man short following a red card to captain Singkhi Mpedi deep into stoppage time, but it was too late for the visitors to take advantage of their numerical advantage.
Following Saturday’s result, Richards Bay remain top of the table with five points, the same as Pretoria University who have the same number of points but have an inferior goal difference.
The draw threw a lifeline to bottom-placed Baroka who appeared out of the running for promotion while Pretoria University are out of the race to gain promotion.
Bakgaga ba Mphahlele have two points, but if they beat Richards Bay by a three-goal margin on Wednesday they will earn themselves a PSL ticket.
The Natal Rich Boyz will be at home and need just a point to retain their top-flight league status.
The situation has thrown the play-offs down to the wire with Wednesday’s match a highly-anticipated affair.
On Saturday, hosts AmaTuks did not change the team that drew 1-1 with Baroka in midweek while their visitors from KwaZulu-Natal had left-back Nkosikhona Ndaba returning.
Maova almost spoiled the Tshwane side’s afternoon when he spilled the ball into his own net after struggling to deal with a Yanela Mbuthuma headed effort.
But early into the second half, Pheeane headed in a cross from Tebogo Mohlamonyane to make it one apiece.
Pictured above: University of Pretoria captain Singkhi Mpedi vies for possession against Richards Bay forward Moses Mthembu
Image source: Richards Bay
