AmaZulu picked up their first victory in the Betway Premiership when they defeated Chippa United 2-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Tuesday evening.
Usuthu’s first goal came in the first half, as Hendrick Ekstein impressed once again, scoring in his second match in a row.
The build-up to the goal was supported by Etiosa Ighodaro who made a pass that put Tshepang Moremi in a good position to provide the assist to Ekstein.
The KZN outfit dominated possession and showed grit throughout, prompting celebrations from the touchline and coaching staff.
In the 35th minute, Celimpilo Ngema doubled the lead for the home team as he finished a pass from Rowan Human.
Chippa United went into the second half two goals behind with loads of work to do.
The team began to pick themselves up, and came close to grabbing a goal but their effort from the set piece hit the post.
Stanley Nwabali made a good save in the 67th minute from Rahlahlwe Mphahlele’s header and as tensions rose Abbubaker Mobara was sent off during stoppage time for losing his composure on the pitch.
The KZN outfit walked away with all three points and their first win of the season, something that will lift the team’s morale after having a dismal start to the season.
AmaZulu (2) 0 (Ekstein 26’, Ngema 35’)
Chippa United (0) 0
AmaZulu: R. Ofori, T. Sikhakhane, A. Mobara (Mphahlele 60)(RED CARD 90+4’), T. Fielies, R. Hanamub, C. Ngema, B. Motshwari, H. Ekstein, R. Human (W. Jooste 60’), T. Moremi (S. Ngobeni 77’), E. Ighodaro (J. Dion 84’)
Chippa United: S. Nwabali, M. Modise (Philander 69’), J. Chabalala, T. Makreel, S. Kammies, S. Baloni, A. Jali (A. Dlala 46’), A. Magqwaka (A. Mqokozo 82’), E. Kambindu, A. Teto (C. Martin 46’), B. Eva Nga (G. Michael 46’)