Cape Town - Platinum Stars and Mamelodi Sundowns played to a goalless draw in their Absa Premiership clash at Royal Bafokeng Palace Stadium on Saturday night.
Sundowns came out the blocks flying and came close to opening the scoring as early as the fourth minute with Ramahlwe Mphahlele’s header failing to find the back of the net.
Bongi Ntuli, on loan from Sundowns, had a great opportunity to score against his parent club after he was played in by a good pass from Masibusane Zongo, but his shot was not strong enough to beat Kennedy Mweene in goal for Sundowns.
Sundowns dominated possession for the better part of the first half, but were let down by poor finishing, having created several goal-scoring opportunities.
Khama Billiat also had a great chance in the 40th minute after he was played in by Teko Modise, but his effort flashed in front of goal with Dikwena’s goalkeeper, Mbongeni Nzimela, already beaten by the ball.
Nzimela nearly cost his side when unnecessarily rushed out of goal, but Sibusiso Gumede and Vuyo Mere were on hand to prevent the danger as Sundowns failed to capitalise on their dominance toward the end of the first half.
The second half started at a very slow pace, but Billiat was very instrumental in attack for Sundowns, and tested Nzimela a number of times.
The two benches then reacted by bringing in attacking players, with Platinum Stars introducing Tlou Segolela and Eleazer Rodgers.
Sundowns also brought on former Dikwena fan-favourite Mogakolodi Ngele, who replaced Hlompho Kekana.
The chances were far and between in the second half, but Rodgers was presented with the best chance to break the deadlock in 77th minute, but Mweene was up to the task to stop the danger.
Ngele forced a good save from Mzimela with minutes to the final whistle as Sundowns nearly stole it at the death.