Mamelodi Sundowns struck at the death to deny Chippa United a historic first-ever league victory over the Brazilians in a dramatic encounter at Buffalo City Stadium on Saturday. Substitute Antonio van Wyk struck deep into stoppage time for an equaliser, which rescued Sundowns from the jaws of defeat in a 1-1 Betway Premiership draw with Chippa.
The Chilli Boys appeared on course to write a piece of history by beating Masandawana for the first time ever in the league, but Van Wyk denied them that opportunity. Sirgio Kammies had thrust Chippa ahead in the 78th minute with his first touch of the game after coming on for Azola Matrose.
By collecting a point on the road, the Brazilians remain unbeaten in the league this season after eight outings. Leading the standings, they have seven points more than second-placed Orlando Pirates, who have, however, played three games fewer.
Chippa remain winless this season with five draws and a defeat. FARPost goes through some of the major talking points of the match.
DIFFICULT OUTING FOR SUNDOWNS ATTACKERS
It was a difficult outing for Masandawana attackers, who struggled and only made a breakthrough five minutes into stoppage time via the boot of Van Wyk. Cardoso started Brayan Leon as spearheading the attack, but the Colombian was not his usual self.
He struggled to beat Stanley Nwabali in goal for Chippa and had to be replaced by Iqraam Rayners in the 63rd minute. Even the speedy Tashreeq Matthews was not that impressive and did little to threaten the hosts.
But Siyanda Ndlovu was promising, especially in the first half where he came close twice with some shots that went just wide. Van Wyk came on for Ndlovu, and it paid off as Cassius Mailula rose from the bench for Kutlwano Lethaku but could not find the back of the net.
CHIPPA UNITED DEFENCE DESERVES SOME CREDIT
The Brazilians battled to unlock a solid Chilly Boys defence, especially in a nervy end to the contest. Abbubaker Mobara and Harold Majadibodu were the centre-back pair, with the latter making life difficult for his former team, Sundowns.
Boy Mohlometsi gave a good shift at right-back, while left-back Imraan Jones deservedly got the Man of the Match award. But Sundowns managed to break this defence right at the death, leaving goalkeeper Nwabali inconsolable after the game.
CRUEL END FOR UNDER FIRE TRUTER
Chippa appeared not only to be headed for their first victory of the season, but their first-ever league win over Sundowns. However, it was a heartbreaking end to the match, especially for Brandon Truter, whose job is on the line.
The former AmaZulu FC tactician missed out on becoming the first coach to guide the Chilli Boys to a PSL victory over Masandawana.
Before Saturday’s match, it was a surprise that Chippa had been patient with Truter. With Cedric Kaze and Phuti Mohafe fired by Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants, respectively, Truter surviving after being winless in five games seemed strange.
Now six matches without tasting victory, it remains to be seen if the Chilli Boys boss Siviwe Mpengesi will wield the axe.
DIFFICULT CONDITIONS IN KUGOMPO
The Buffalo City Stadium pitch was wet, making it difficult for the ball to flow. It worsened because of the rain in KuGompo City. After the match, Cardoso complained about the pitch conditions.
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