Orlando Pirates were frustrated in their bid to reclaim the top of the
Betway Premiership, playing to a goalless draw against a dogged Sekhukhune
United side at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
The Buccaneers, who slipped to second before kick-off, dominated possession
for large periods but found Sekhukhune’s disciplined defence and goalkeeper
Renaldo Leaner in inspired form.
Pirates controlled the early tempo, with Patrick Maswanganyi orchestrating
midfield and Kamogelo Sebelebele a constant threat on the right. Their best
chance of the first half fell to Nkosinathi Sibisi, whose close-range header
from a corner was miraculously cleared off the line by Leaner just before
the break.
Sekhukhune, who recalled Lehlohonolo Mojela and Ngoanamelo Rammala, offered
little in attack, with veteran striker Bradley Grobler well-marshalled by
the central pairing of Sibisi and Lebone Seema. Coach Eric Tinkler’s changes
in the second half injected more adventure, but the hosts rarely troubled
Sipho Chaine in the Pirates goal.
Seeking a winner, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou introduced Relebohile
Mofokeng and Oswin Appollis after the hour mark. The substitutes added
impetus, with Appollis’s pace causing problems and Sebelebele—who dropped to
right-back—nearly snatching a dramatic winner in stoppage time. The winger
weaved past three challenges but was denied by another superb save from the
outstanding Leaner.
The result leaves Pirates waiting to make up ground at the summit, while
Sekhukhune earn a valuable point in their pursuit of a top-four spot.
Lineups:
Sekhukhune United: Leaner; Ndlovu, Cardoso, Letlapa, Mogaila (Matsimbi 58’);
Monare, Mkhize; Rammala, Mojela (Mokoena 58’), Mncube; Grobler.
Subs: Nstabata, Phiri, Yamba, Malivha, Makgalwa, Langa, Tlaka.
Orlando Pirates: Chaine; Van Rooyen (Appollis 66’), Sibisi, Seema, Ndaba;
Makhaula, Mbatha; Sebelebele, Maswanganyi (Mofokeng 66’), Moremi; Makgopa
(Mbuthuma 74’).
Subs: Buthelezi, Chabatsane, Hotto, Mariko, Dansin.
