Kaizer Chiefs were left to rue missed opportunities and defensive mistakes after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Royal AM in their Betway Premiership clash at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The match started with an energetic and attacking pace from Kaizer Chiefs, who dominated possession early on. In the first five minutes, the Glamour Boys made their presence felt, penetrating the Royal AM. Their early pressure paid off in the 5th’ minute when Ashley Du Preez opened the scoring.
The goal came after a clever pass from midfield maestro Gaston Sirino, who found Yusuf Maart. Maarts pinpoint ball then set up Du Preez, who calmly finished to give Chiefs the lead.
Mduduzi Shabalala had a chance to double the lead shortly after, but his effort went wide. However, Kaizer Chiefs were not to be denied for long, and in the 13th’ minute, they extended their advantage with a second goal. Wandile Duba finishing off a well-weighted cross from Dillan Solomons, who unfortunately had to be substituted moments later due to a muscle injury.
The first half was largely dominated by the Chiefs, who continued to press with intent, creating multiple chances that went begging. Despite this dominance, Royal AM had a few sporadic attacks, but they were comfortably dealt with by Brandon Peterson. By halftime, Kaizer Chiefs were firmly in control with a 2-0 lead, and it seemed they were on track for a comfortable win.
Royal AM Fights Back in Second Half
The second half saw a much-improved Royal AM side, who came out with renewed determination. The visitors quickly pulled one back in the 50th minute, thanks to a stunning long-range strike from Ayabulela Maxwele. The goal gave Royal AM the confidence to push forward, and they began to take control of the game, pressing high in search of an equaliser.
Kaizer Chiefs, on the other hand, struggled to regain the dominant rhythm they had shown in the first half. Their lack of composure in front of goal became increasingly apparent, with several missed chances as they failed to convert opportunities into goals. As the game progressed, the tension mounted, and it looked like the Chiefs would hold on for the three points. However, in the dying seconds of the match, disaster struck for the home side.
In the 90’ minute, Royal AM capitalised on poor defending by the Chiefs defense. Levy Mashiane the beneficiary, pounced on a defensive lapse to score the equaliser. The draw left both teams with mixed emotions. Royal AM, who had been on the back foot for most of the game, salvaged a valuable point, climbing to 10th place on the league table with 8 points from 9 matches.
Kaizer Chiefs, on the other hand, were left frustrated, unable to convert their early dominance into a win. They remain in 5th place with 11 points from 7 matches, but will be disappointed by their inability to secure all three points after such a strong start.
