Sekhukhune United displayed remarkable resilience, fighting back from behind twice to earn a hard-fought 2-2 draw against AmaZulu FC in a thrilling Betway Premiership clash at Princess Magogo Stadium on Monday evening.
Despite the share of the spoils, Babina Noko remain in fifth position on the league table, four points adrift of third-placed Kaizer Chiefs, with the race for the top three intensifying. Sekhukhune will now turn their focus to the Limpopo Derby, where they host Magesi FC on 11 April as they look to return to winning ways.
AmaZulu, meanwhile, squandered a golden opportunity to climb into third place after twice surrendering the lead. Coach Arthur Zwane’s side will aim to get their top-three push back on track when they travel to face Siwelele FC on 11 April.
Usuthu made a blistering start to the match, creating several clear-cut chances and deservedly taking the lead in the 23rd minute. Thapelo Matlhoko continued his fine form by netting his second goal in as many matches, handing AmaZulu a 1-0 advantage.
Babina Noko, however, steadily grew into the contest as the first half wore on and they restored parity in the 42nd minute when Olerato Mandi finished off a well-worked move, with Keletso Makgalwa registering his seventh assist of the season. The teams went into the break locked at 1-1 in KwaMashu, Durban.
After the restart, AmaZulu were able to cut open the Sekhukhune defence with ease. The hosts restored their lead in the 51st minute when Nkosikhona Radebe pounced on the rebound to score his first goal of the season, making it 2-1 to AmaZulu after Hendrick Ekstein’s low shot was saved by Renaldo Leaner.
Coach Eric Tinkler responded with a tactical change, withdrawing Bradley Mojela and introducing Daniel Cardoso. The adjustment allowed Bright Ndlovu to push forward into more attacking areas, and it proved to be a masterstroke as Ndlovu grabbed the equalising goal in the 77th minute, ensuring the game finished in an entertaining 2-2 draw.
AmaZulu (1) 2 (Matlhoko 23', Radebe 51')
Sekhukhune (1) 2 (Mandi 42', Ndlovu 77')
AMAZULU: Mzimela, Allan, Fielies, Mthethwa, Radebe, Bern, Zikhali (Zungu 76'), Hanamub, Matlhoko (Mashigo 67'), Maqokolo (Kutumela 86'), Ekstein (Hlangabeza 76').
SEKHUKHUNE: Leaner, Mashiloane, Ndlovu, Yamba, Letlapa, Mandi (Mncube 75'), Mkhize, Monare, Rammala (Mogaila 86'), Mojela (Cardoso 75'), Makgalwa (Mokoane 86').