Betway Premiership Midweek Action: Richards Bay Win, TS Galaxy Bounce Back

Key Results that Shifted the Table

September 24 turned out to be a roller‑coaster for fans across the league. The most eye‑catching result came from the Betway Premiership as Richards Bay eked out a 1‑0 win over Magesi FC. A solitary header from a corner in the 68th minute was enough to keep the Natal Rich Boyz on a winning streak, their second in a row. Coach Vuyani Tshabalala praised his side’s “discipline under pressure” after the match, noting that the team finally started to finish chances they had been creating all season.

Just over an hour later, TS Galaxy made a statement at the Mbombela Stadium, beating AmaZulu 3‑1. Striker Sipho Khumalo was the star, netting a brace and assisting the third goal with a clever flick. The win catapulted Galaxy from the lower mid‑table into the top‑half, reviving hopes of a continental qualification spot. Their fans left the stadium chanting, "Galaxy up, never down!" – a chant that will likely echo throughout the remainder of the campaign.

Orbit College provided the biggest upset of the night by ending Polokwane City's unbeaten run. A disciplined defensive display kept the City side at bay, and a quick counter‑attack in the 42nd minute saw Orbit’s midfielder, Lwazi Ndlovu, slot home the only goal. The result sent shockwaves through the league, with pundits calling it “the most surprising result of the season so far.”

Stellenbosch FC’s story was less uplifting. A goalless draw against Durban City highlighted their ongoing struggles in front of goal. The match featured eight shots on target from Stellenbosch, yet none found the net. Coach Mthokozisi Dlamini admitted that the side “needs a spark” and hinted at possible tactical tweaks for the next round of fixtures.

Meanwhile, the title race drama unfolded at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Sekhukhune United, sitting just a few points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, took an early lead against Chippa United. However, a late penalty by Grobler, calmly converted by Babina Noko, secured a 1‑1 draw. The point was a bitter pill for Sekhukhune, who missed a golden opportunity to trim the gap on Sundowns. Their manager, Sipho Ngoma, said the team “must learn to finish stronger when the odds are in our favor.”

What the Midweek Means for the Rest of the Season

These fixtures underscore how competitive the Betway Premiership has become. With ten matches left before the year’s end, every point feels like gold. Richards Bay’s steady climb suggests they could become a surprise contender for a continental spot if they sustain their form. Their defense, now conceding just one goal in two games, looks ready to hold firm against bigger clubs.

TS Galaxy’s resurgence shows that a single win can change the narrative completely. Their attacking trio, now responsible for 70% of the team’s goals, will be the focus of opposition analyses in the weeks ahead. If they keep delivering three‑goal performances, the mid‑table teams may need to re‑think their defensive setups.

Orbit College’s victory over Polokwane City serves as a reminder that no team is immune to a slip‑up. The College’s coach, Thabo Mokoena, emphasized the importance of “mental toughness,” a factor that could see them pull off more upsets down the line.

Stellenbosch’s draw may act as a wake‑up call. Their lack of cutting edge in front of goal could force a change in striker personnel or perhaps a shift to a more aggressive formation. Fans are already demanding answers, and the club’s board is expected to act quickly.

Sekhukhune United, despite the draw, remains within striking distance of the top. A win in their next match could reignite their title chase, but they’ll need to turn penalties into victories rather than shared points. Their next opponents, defending champions Orlando Pirates, will pose a stern test of resolve.

Overall, the midweek slate highlighted the league’s unpredictability. From surprise upsets to title‑race drama, the Betway Premiership continues to deliver football that keeps supporters on the edge of their seats. Fans can expect the coming weeks to be just as thrilling as the clubs fight for every three points.

• Richards Bay – 2 wins in a row, solid defense.
• TS Galaxy – 3‑1 win, attack in top form.
• Orbit College – ended Polokwane City's unbeaten streak.
• Stellenbosch – 0‑0 draw, offensive woes continue.
• Sekhukhune United – 1‑1 draw, missed chance to close on leaders.