Cape Town - Bloemfontein Celtic defeated Richards Bay 3-1 in their Nedbank Cup last 16 encounter at the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium on Sunday.
Celtic were on top early on with Sepana Letsoalo firing just wide of Xolani Ngcobo's left upright, before Sipho Jembula tested the goalkeeper with a half-volley on five minutes.
Alfred Ndengane was also just wide as the early chances kept coming, that saw Sandile Mthethwa force Kabelo Dambe into a good low stop at the other end.
Given Mashikinya hit the side-netting of Ngcobo's goal ahead of a chance from Khayelihle Shozi that flew wide.
Celtic though finally made one of their opportunities count through Mpho Maruping as the half drew to a close, following a scramble in the box.
The away side came out with a fighting belief after the break, but were just unable to break down their Absa Premiership opponents.
Kulegani Madondo rifled his effort wide, along with Greg Roelf who was marginally closer with a drive on 56 minutes. Roelf also swung in a number of dangerous balls from wide positions as he looked to play provider.
Celtic always looked to have more goals in them and finally added to their lead in the 86th minute through a good finish from Neo Maema.
Kabelo Dlamini was on hand to slot home with 90 minutes on the clock as Thabiso Nkoana stole in for a very late consolation.