The DStv Premiership roared back to life on Friday evening, with SuperSport United and Stellenbosch FC battling to a 1-1 draw in Pretoria.
The clash played at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, was the first Premiership game since the 2023 AFCON break and also the opening encounter of the year 2024.
Matsatsantsa dominated the opening minutes of the match as they searched for an early goal to boost their confidence.
On the other side, Stellenbosch launched a few counter-attacks. However, they were let down by misplaced passes in the final third.
SuperSport raising star Shandre Campbell was a thorn for the Stellenbosch defence with his skill and pace. The 18-year-old attacker’s hard work in the left flank was eventually rewarded. He played an exquisite cross to Bradley Grobler, who opened the scoring in the 21st minute.
The home side, Matsatsantsa, finished the first half on a high note and went into the half-time break, leading Stellenbosch by 1-0.
STELLENBOSCH FC LEVEL MATTERS AGAINST SUPERSPORT
The Western Cape-based outfit kicked off the second half looking to get a quick equalising goal. Stellenbosch levelled matters in the 56th minute through Iqraam Rayners. The 28-year-old forward took his goal tally in the league to five goals.
The Steve Barker-coached team suffered an injury blow to Sage Stephens. The latter collided with Terrence Dvzukamanja. Stephens was replaced by Oscarine Masuluke between the sticks.
Stellenbosch saw most of the ball position go in their favour in the dying minutes of the match. They created goal-scoring opportunities, but the Spartans stood firm at the back.
SuperSport and Stellenbosch could not be separated after 90 minutes, and both sides went home with one point. Keegan Allan was sent off late in the game after receiving his second yellow card for a poor challenge.
The draw leaves SuperSport in the second spot with 30 points, while Stellenbosch sits fourth on the log with 27 points after 17 matches played.
RELATED STORY: ‘Chiefs fans are spoilt’, claims Arthur Zwane
