Usuthu fell behind early to Deolin Mekoa’s goal at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, but just after Kwanda Mngonyama was sent off for Maritzburg, AmaZulu grabbed a second half equaliser through Thapelo Nyongo.
With Chippa United losing at home to Kaizer Chiefs, a winner would have guaranteed Usuthu’s survival, but Bongani Ndulula wasted a gilt-edged opportunity, and AmaZulu’s fate was sealed when Abel Mabaso’s deflected shot gave United the win.
Moroka Swallows’ win over Bloemfontein Celtic meant that they leapfrogged Barker’s side to finish in the promotion/relegation play-off spot.
