Saleng strikes as Orbit edge Richards Bay

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Monnapule Saleng fired Orbit College to a much-needed 2–1 victory over Richards Bay on Friday night, reigniting his form and lifting the club up the Betway Premiership table.

After a difficult few months that saw the Orlando Pirates loanee criticised by his coach Pogiso Makhoye, Saleng silenced his doubters with the decisive goal at the uMhlathuze Stadium, his first of the season. The win sees Orbit climb to 12th place on 10 points, just one behind Richards Bay in 10th and five off the continental qualification spots.

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Orbit struck first in the 13th minute through Lethabo Modimoeng, who converted Thuso Moleleki’s cross with a clever near-post finish. Richards Bay hit back late in the first half as Knox Mutizwa nodded in his third goal in two matches after meeting Thabisa Ndelu’s delivery.

The game’s turning point arrived six minutes into the second half when Olaoleng Mokgosi picked out Saleng in the box, and the 27-year-old made no mistake from close range. Replays suggested a hint of offside, but the goal stood, sealing Orbit’s first away win of the season and third overall.

Coach Makhoye praised Saleng afterward, revealing he had challenged the winger to “finally get that goal” before kick-off. The coach’s faith paid off as Orbit showed resilience late on, with Ramahlwe Mphahlele making his debut to help steady the defence.

Next up, Orbit College host relegation battlers Magesi FC in Rustenburg, while Richards Bay travel to Polokwane City looking to recover.

Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

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Dylan Johnson