By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates’ bid to end the 2023/24 Premier Soccer League as runners-up to Mamelodi Sundowns suffered a setback following a 1-0 defeat by Richards Bay on Saturday.
Sanele Barns’ 36th minute goal was all the Natal Rich Boyz needed to secure maximum points and get out of the relegation zone.
It was a big drawback for the Buccaneers who remain third on the table with a point less than second-placed Stellenbosch.
Jose Riveiro’s men had an opportunity to go second but could not take advantage of Stellenbosch’s 2-0 defeat by Moroka Swallows earlier in the day.
The Pirates result was a big feat for 15-placed Richards Bay whose three points helped them avoid automatic relegation
That means Cape Town Spurs have now been relegated from the PSL back into the National First Division.
The Urban Warriors had drawn 0-0 with SuperSport United on Friday and will not be able to catch up with Richards Bay even if they win their remaining two league games.
Richards Bay will now play to avoid participating in the relegation/promotional playoffs against teams that finish second and third in the NFD.
However, it was the Pirates defeat that stole the limelight on Saturday.
The result ended the Soweto giants’ six-match winning streak across all competitions on an afternoon where Riveiro fielded his regulars.
But it did not work for Pirates against Richards Bay who missed defender Tercious Malepe due to injury.
Even going into the match knowing that Stellenbosch had fallen to Swallows, Pirates still failed to exploit.
Gosla from Lindokuhle Mtshali and Gabadinho Mhango condemned Stellenbosch to a third consecutive match without tasting victory.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates attacker Siphelo Baloni tracks Richards Bay’s Justice Figuareido
Image source: Richards Bay
