Royal AM replace Kaizer Chiefs with last-gasp win over Swallows

Amakhosi had occupied the second spot following their 2-1 win over Orlando Pirates, but they are now third on the log with Royal AM now behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

John Maduka’s men went into the game as strong favourites to win the match given their form this season.

Both teams had a number of good goalscoring chances but neither of them could turn those into goals, especially in the first half.

The match started to get interesting in the final 15 minutes when Royal AM midfielder Zukile Mkhize was given a straight red card for a high tackle on Keletso Makgalwa.

This meant Royal AM had to change their approach due to the numerical disadvantage in the final minutes of the game.

Swallows failed to use the red card to Zukile to their advantage as they still looked disjointed in midfield despite a few entries into the Royal AM penalty box.

Royal AM did get the chance to break the deadlock through veteran midfielder Elias Pelembe whose bicycle-kick flew past Thela Thela in the Swallows goal deep into stoppage time.

The win saw Royal AM move above Kaizer Chiefs on the standings as they are on 36 points from 21 games while Stuart Baxter’s men are third with 35 points after 19 games.

STARTING XI: ROYAL AM VS SWALLOWS

Royal AM: Nyame, Mkhize, Matlaba, Nascimento, Potsane, Mashikinya, Manganyi, Phalane, Mahlasela, Macuphu, Letsoalo

Subs: Mpoto, Masuku, Thikazi, Pelembe, Msomi, Monamodi, Mabena, Mabuza, Ncobeni

Swallows: Ngobeni, Solomons, Letlabika, Sasman, Basadien, Mokoena, Khupe, Mahlatsi, Saleng, Ndlovu, Musonda

Subs: February, Mohamme, Nyatama, Wambi, Mbhele, Ntshumayelo, Margeman, Makgalwa, Malinga