Chippa settle for draw at Maritzburg

Cape Town - Maritzburg United and Chippa United played to a 1-1 draw at the Harry Gwala Stadium in their Absa Premiership clash on Friday night.

As it happened: Maritzburg United v Chippa United

The home team threatened as early as the 15th minute. The chance was created by brilliant link-up play from Fortune Makaringe and Lebohang Maboe, with the latter managing to pick out Deolin Mekoa but the right winger scuffed his left-footed shot at goal. 

Chippa were awarded a penalty in the 25th minute when new signing Fares Hachi's cross was handed in the box by Brian Onyango.

James Okwuoso stepped up but was denied by a spectacular save from Richard Ofori, who got down well to his right to deny the opposing captain. 

Five minutes before the break, United had a golden opportunity to take the lead when Andrea Fileccia played in Evans Rusike only for the Zimbabwean to blaze over from close range. 

Two minutes after the restart, the 'Team of Choice' had another effort at goal through Maboe, who went on a solo run from well inside his own half and eventually tested Daniel Akpey in the away goal. 

Fadlu Davids' men though took the lead in the 64th minute. Fileccia did well to keep a chance alive and Maboe found Rusike who struck a low right foot shot past Akpeyi to give his team the lead. 

The 'Chilli Boys' equalised in the 71st minute. A defensive error from Rushine De Reuck allowed Buyani Sali to play in Mxolisi Macuphu who slotted home and punished the home team.