Pirates, Chiefs play to goalless draw

Johannesburg - For the umpteenth time in recent history the Soweto Derby match between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs failed to live up to expectations, with the two South African giants playing to a 0-0 stalemate in an Absa Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

As it happened: Pirates v Chiefs

Both teams had chances to break the deadlock throughout as 90 000 fans watched on, but neither could do just that as the two teams left the 2010 FIFA World Cup final venue with a point apiece.

Riyaad Norodien was a late inclusion into the starting XI by Muhsin Ertugral and eager to make an impression, the former Ajax Cape Town man turned on the style in the 23rd minute to set up Thabo Rakhale.

But with time and space the wing-wizard's poor first touch let him down as the experienced Itumeleng Khune rushed off his line to gather at Rakhale's feet.

Norodien then decided to take matters into his own hands as he sent a rasping attempt over the crossbar moments later.

The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hendrick Ekstein in first-half stoppage-time, the midfielder unable to capitalise on a pin-point cross by Ramahlwe Mphahlele - guiding his volley attempt over the woodwork.

Gift Motupa had a chance to put Pirates 1-0 up in the 49th minute, but he too was unable to hit the target with the goal at his mercy.

Chiefs were the better side in the closing exchanges with Siphiwe Tshabalala forcing Brighton Mhlongo into smart save in the 76th minute of the match - the midfielder eager to impress in his 28th Soweto Derby appearance.

As it turned out the Glamour Boys would have the last chance of the match, but Issa Sarr was alert to block Edward Manqele's powerful drive.

Chiefs return to the top of the standings despite the draw, while unbeaten Pirates move up to fourth.

Teams:

Kaizer Chiefs

Khune, Mphahlele, Khumalo, Gordinho, Mathoho, Katsande, Twala, Buchanan, Katsvairo, Ekstein, Lebese.

Substitutes: Khuzwayo, Cardoso, Masilela, Moleko, Tshabalala, Parker, Manqele

Orlando Pirates

Mhlongo, Jele, Gyimah, Makola, Matlaba, Memela, Motupa, Nyauza, Sarr, Rakhale, Ndoro.

Substitutes: Mabokgwane, Chabalala, Gabuza, Morrison, Norodien, Phungwayo, Sikhakhane