Mayo Scores on Debut As Chiefs Drop Points at Home

A debut goal from Kaizer Chiefs new signing Khanyisa Mayo was not enough to secure a win for Amakhosi, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Marumo Gallants in their Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium.

The Soweto giants Chiefs shook up their lineup with the debut of Mayo and the return of key players Gaston Sirino, Ashley Du Preez, and Reeve Frosler. 

Chiefs immediately took control, dominating the ball and using the blistering pace of Mayo and Du Preez to slice through the defense. However, their attacks repeatedly fizzled out at the crucial moment, failing to find that final clinical pass. 

Marumo Gallants, meanwhile, were content to sit deep, forming a disciplined defensive wall and looking for any chance to launch a quick break.

The deadlock was finally broken six minutes before halftime. Ashley Du Preez, proving to be a constant threat, played a perfectly weighted ball to Mayo, who made his debut an instant success by poking it into the net from six yards out.

Du Preez continued to torment the Gallants defense, winning a penalty moments later when his cross struck Sibusiso Sikhosana’s arm. Gaston Sirino stepped up to take the resulting spot-kick, but Gallants' heroics came from their keeper, Washington Arubi, who dived to make a superb save, keeping his side in the game.

After the break, Gallants came out with renewed intensity, pushing hard for an equalizer. Chiefs brought on fresh legs, introducing Mduduzi Shabalala and Glody Lilepo. 

HOW CLIFFORD SPOILED MAYO’S DEBUT GOAL

The visitors’ pressure paid off when Jaisen Clifford, with a moment of individual brilliance, found some space and unleashed a stunning, curling shot that flew into the top corner. 

With the clock ticking down, Chiefs threw on Pule Mmodi and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, but a resolute Gallants defense held firm, and the match ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw for the home side.