Polokwane City kicked off their Betway Premiership campaign in impressive fashion, claiming a 2-1 away victory over Richards Bay in a fiercely contested encounter in KwaZulu-Natal.
Rise and Shine took the lead in the 18th minute when Ndamulelo Maphangule calmly found the back of the net to register his first goal of the new season. The visitors extended their advantage 10 minutes into the second half as Tidimalo Molokwane produced a superb strike in the 55th minute to put Polokwane City firmly in control.
Richards Bay refused to go down without a fight and reduced the deficit in the 69th minute through defender Simphiwe Fortune Mcineka, whose well-taken header set up a tense finale.
The closing stages were filled with drama as the hosts launched wave after wave of attacks while also appealing for key penalty decisions. The controversial refereeing calls reignited debate over the need for VAR in South African football, with Richards Bay left frustrated after their appeals were waved away.
Despite the late pressure and controversy, Polokwane City held their nerve to secure all three points and make an excellent start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
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