Tshepho Mashiloane with the player of the match award for his late equaliser. Tshepho Mashiloane with the player of the match award for his late equaliser.
Image: jehran naidoo
Sekhukhune United F.C. rescued a dramatic point with a late equaliser against Durban City F.C. in a pulsating Betway Premiership encounter at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday evening.
In a match played under light drizzle and heavy tension, it was the visitors who had the final say, silencing the home crowd in the dying minutes after a spirited display from Durban City had looked set to secure all three points.
Durban began brightly and should have taken the lead early on after a defensive lapse from the Sekhukhune back line presented a golden opportunity. However, the hosts failed to capitalise, setting the tone for a first half where they looked the more dangerous side without finding the finishing touch.
Sekhukhune enjoyed spells of possession but struggled to penetrate Durban’s disciplined defensive structure.
Their attempts to work the ball through the middle lacked urgency, and while they did manage a shot on target from a wide cut-back, it failed to truly trouble the goalkeeper.
The hosts continued to push forward with intent. Kyle Jurgens was at the heart of everything positive for City, spraying long passes and driving at defenders with confidence.
Coach Erik Tinkler cut a frustrated figure on the sidelines as his side battled to assert the dominance expected of a team sitting higher on the table.
Durban City fans watch pensively as their side attacks in the first half against Sekukhune United on Wednesday. Durban City fans watch pensively as their side attacks in the first half against Sekukhune United on Wednesday.
Image: Jehran Naidoo
Durban’s persistence was eventually rewarded midway through the second half. Following a double substitution, Saziso Magawana reacted quickest inside the box to slot home and give the home side a deserved lead.
The goal sparked wild celebrations and appeared to justify Durban’s attacking ambition throughout the contest. But Sekhukhune refused to fade.
The introduction of fresh legs brought renewed energy and composure to their build-up play. As the clock ticked towards full time, the visitors found their breakthrough.
In the 87th minute, Tshepho Mashiloane rose to the occasion, finding the back of the net to level matters and stun the home supporters into silence. His well-taken equaliser ensured Sekhukhune left Durban with a hard-earned point.
While Durban may feel two points slipped away after controlling large spells, Sekhukhune will take heart from their resilience. In the end, it was a match that showcased both promise and pressure, with late drama defining the evening.
Jehran Naidoo is sports reporter with focus on motorsport for Independent Media and editor of the social media channel The Clutch