Mbulu’s strike ends SA club’s honeymoon
South Africa-based Baroka FC forward Richard Mbulu’s strike on Tuesday ended AmaZulu’s incredible 16-match unbeaten run in the DStv Premiership.
That was not all. The goal also dented Usuthu’s title hopes.
It wasn’t just about the significance of the goal, the actual execution was also utter beauty which underlined the Flames’ striker’s technical finesse.
The 27-year-old netted with a magnificently executed curling shot after being set up by Evidence Makgopa for the lone goal of match.
In a match monitored on SuperSport Television, there was a trademark cheeky body swerve to fool his marker before he did the rest to perfection.
In an interview from the Rainbow Nation yesterday, Mbulu said he was delighted at the significance of his strike.
“I am really excited to score such a priceless goal that not only ended AmaZulu’s unbeaten run, but also helped us bag three points in a quest to finish in the top eight,” he said.
The goal took Mbulu’s tally to six goals—seven behind leading scorer Bradley Grobler of Orlando Pirates—as Baroka leapfrogged fallen giants Kaizer Chiefs into ninth place on the league standings, while Usuthu remained second in the 16-team league.
AmaZulu have 50 points from 27 matches, seven points adrift of leaders and reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand, while Baroka have 32 points from 27 matches.
Flames captain Limbikani Mzava, a regular for Usuthu, did not get a run while Mbulu’s compatriot and teammate Gerald Phiri Jnr was substituted in the 63rd minute.
Another Malawian forward Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango played a full game for Orlando Pirates when they were held to a goalless draw by Stellenbosch.
As of yesterday, Pirates were fourth with 43 points from 26 matches.
