Betway Premiership
By Sello Masilo
East London – Chippa United clinched their second straight victory in the Betway Premiership, overcoming AmaZulu FC 2-1 in an entertaining clash at Buffalo City Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Chilli Boys’ resurgence under coach Thabo September saw them rise to ninth in the league standings, while AmaZulu’s defeat deepened their woes, leaving them seventh after a 12th loss this season.
The match showcased Chippa’s attacking intent and defensive resilience, with debutant Enock Sakala and veteran Craig Martin scoring crucial goals. Despite a spirited fightback from AmaZulu, led by Tshepang Moremi’s first-half strike, Chippa held firm to secure three valuable points.
Early Dominance Sets the Tone for Chippa
Chippa United wasted no time asserting their authority, taking the lead in the 19th minute. Zambian striker Enock Sakala, making his full debut for the Eastern Cape outfit, pounced on a defensive error to fire the Chilli Boys ahead 1-0. The 22-year-old’s clinical finish sparked celebrations among the home crowd and set the tone for an aggressive first half.
The hosts doubled their advantage six minutes past the half-hour mark. Midfielder Aviwe Mqokozo delivered a pinpoint assist to Craig Martin, who slotted home his second goal of the season. Martin, a former Orlando Pirates star, showcased his experience with a composed finish, making it 2-0 and putting Chippa in firm control.
AmaZulu Respond Before the Break
AmaZulu FC refused to roll over, pulling a goal back just before halftime. In the 44th minute, a lapse in Chippa’s defence allowed Rowan Human to thread a pass to Tshepang Moremi. The in-form forward calmly beat goalkeeper Darren Johnson, netting his fourth goal of the campaign to reduce the deficit to 2-1. The strike handed Usuthu a lifeline heading into the interval.
Second Half: AmaZulu Push, Chippa Stand Firm
After the restart, AmaZulu ramped up the pressure in search of an equalizer. Hendrick Ekstein tested Chippa’s resolve in the 63rd minute, forcing Darren Johnson into a vital save to preserve the Chilli Boys’ lead. Despite Usuthu’s persistence, Chippa’s defence, anchored by Johnson and centre-back Makhehleni Makha, stood tall to thwart further threats.
The home side managed the game expertly in the closing stages, holding on for a 2-1 victory that underlined their growing momentum in the Betway Premiership.
Key Performers Shine on Both Sides
• Enock Sakala (Chippa United): The Zambian debutant made an instant impact, scoring the opener and signaling his potential as a key figure for the Chilli Boys.
• Craig Martin (Chippa United): The seasoned attacker added a second goal, combining well with Mqokozo to showcase Chippa’s attacking flair.
• Darren Johnson (Chippa United): The goalkeeper’s crucial save in the second half ensured Chippa walked away with all three points.
• Tshepang Moremi (AmaZulu FC): His fourth goal of the season kept Usuthu in the contest, though it wasn’t enough to spark a comeback.Standings and What’s Next
The victory lifts Chippa United to ninth place in the Betway Premiership, just three points behind sixth-placed Polokwane City. Coach Thabo September’s side is showing signs of consistency, and their next test comes on 5 April, when they travel to face Golden Arrows.
For AmaZulu FC, the defeat marks their third consecutive loss, leaving them stuck in seventh. Coach Arthur Zwane now faces mounting pressure to halt Usuthu’s slide, with a critical home match against Richards Bay looming on 4 April. Another loss could see them tumble further down the table.
Match Summary
• Final Score: Chippa United 2-1 AmaZulu FC
• Chippa United Goals: Enock Sakala (19’), Craig Martin (36’)
• AmaZulu FC Goal: Tshepang Moremi (44’)
• Venue: Buffalo City Stadium, East LondonLine-ups:
• Chippa United: Johnson, Ndlovu, Makhele, Chabalala, Ntsabo, Konqobe (Sithole 63’), Kammies, Philander (Molaoa 69’), Mqokozo (Tyongwana 46’), Martin (Modise 46’), Sakala (Maarman 46’)
• AmaZulu FC: Mothwa, Jooste, Hanamub (Mngonyama 88’), Mthethwa, Fielies, Ekstein (Ighodaro 64’), Brooks (Ngobeni 88’), Moremi, Motshwari (Mbanjwa 85’), Kambindu, HumanChippa United’s back-to-back wins signal their intent to climb the Betway Premiership table, with Sakala and Martin proving pivotal in their latest triumph. For AmaZulu, the clock is ticking for Zwane to turn things around as Usuthu look to avoid a fourth straight defeat.
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