Van Wyk to the rescue as Sundowns leaves it late to deny Chippa

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Van Wyk to the rescue as Sundowns leaves it late to deny Chippa
Chippa United vs Mamelodi Sundowns, Image: Chippa

A late strike by Antonio van Wyk ensured Mamelodi Sundowns drew 1-1 with Chippa United in the Premier Soccer League outing at the Buffalo City Stadium.

Masandawana supporters might have expected to see either Thabang Matuludi or Deano van Rooyen start, or at least be included in the matchday squad, but the technical team had other ideas.

It was going to be a massive task for the Chilli Boys, who have never beaten the Brazilians in the Premier Soccer League.

The goalless first half

Sundowns came into the game aware that three points would put more light between them and their competitors. Orlando Pirates were in the CAF Champions League duties while Kaizer Chiefs had dropped points in the 1-1 draw with Polokwane City.

In the 13th minute, Tashreeq Matthews could have given the visitors a lead but failed to guide home Siyanda Ndlovu’s cross. Brayan Leon’s effort two minutes later was saved by Stanley Nwabali. Masandawana further failed to capitalise on a free-kick from Fawaaz Basadien in the 42nd minute.

The Chilli Boys were second-best in the game, but Sundowns just couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net.

Second half

Even after the break, Chippa United continued to sit back, as Masandawana struggled to find a way of getting past that low block.

Cassius Mailula got a chance to test Nwabali in the 62nd minute, but the latter made a good save. Bafana Bafana international Iqraam Rayners was introduced in the 65th minute, replacing Aubrey Modiba and putting more pressure on the hosts, hoping to score.

Against the run of play, the Chilli Boys broke the deadlock with 12 minutes to go. A swift interchange ended with Sirgio Kammies burying the ball deep into Ronwen Williams’ goal.

Chippa United thought they have finally won against Sundowns in the league for the first time in their history, but Antonio van Wyk broke their hearts with a late equaliser to ensure spoils were shared.

While Masandawana have now opened an eight-point gap on top of the table ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates who are on 13 points with three games at hand, the Chilli Boys are 12th with five points, and yet to get a win this season.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

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Willis Sob is a sports betting expert and journalist covering Nigeria and South Africa, with 16 years of experience. With a background in journalism, reporting and programme production, he specialises in football odds, and his work has appeared on OK Africa and GOAL, as well as TV, radio and podcasts.

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