Betway premiership weekend round-up

by NJABULO MKHIZE
DURBAN, (CAJ News) – THE Betway Premiership title race tightened over the weekend, although Mamelodi Sundowns remain firmly in control after being held to a 1-1 draw by Chippa United.

The former champions have 20 points from eight matches, seven ahead of Orlando Pirates, who have played three games fewer.

Sundowns looked set for another victory until Chippa substitute Sirgio Kammies put the hosts ahead in the 78th minute.

Antonio Van Wyk rescued a point with a late equaliser.

The result keeps Sundowns unbeaten, but Pirates will see it as an opportunity to close the gap when they return to league action against Durban City on Thursday.

AmaZulu were the weekend’s other big winners among the established contenders.

Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya’s 36th-minute header secured a 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants, moving Usuthu to third on 13 points, level with Pirates.

Kaizer Chiefs could only draw 1-1 at Polokwane City, with Lebohang Maboe scoring for Amakhosi before a goalkeeping error allowed Giovanni Philander’s corner to level the match.

Chiefs are fourth on 12 points.

The most impressive performance, however, came from newly promoted Milford FC.

The Stallions demolished Richards Bay 5-1 to move fifth on 11 points.

Siphosethu Ndlabi opened from the penalty spot before Mvelo Zikakayo scored twice.

Phakamani Jwara and Jabulile Gxakoshe completed the rout.

Richards Bay played much of the match with 10 men after Lindokuhle Zikhali was sent off.

At the bottom, Kruger United finally recorded their first Premiership victory, beating 10-man TS Galaxy 1-0 through Khethukuthula Ndlovu’s second-half strike. Kruger remain 13th on four points, but the win offers vital hope.

Richards Bay have three points, while Siwelele also have three after Christian Saile cancelled out Philani Khumalo’s opener in a 1-1 draw with Golden Arrows.

Marumo Gallants are in the greatest immediate danger, with only two points and no wins after six matches.

Chippa, on five points, are also searching for their first victory. The early relegation picture remains fluid, but Gallants, Siwelele, Richards Bay and Kruger cannot afford another prolonged winless run.

The title picture is clearer: Sundowns remain favourites, but Pirates, AmaZulu and Chiefs are close enough to make every dropped point significant. At the other end, survival will demand victories, not merely draws.

– CAJ News