Chippa United and Richards Bay shared the spoils after playing to a 1-1 draw in their Betway Premiership clash at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto on Tuesday evening.
The Chilli Boys took the lead through debutant Ntuthuko Mlotshwa, but Richards Bay responded with a stunning long-range equaliser from Tuli Nashixwa shortly after halftime.
The two sides struggled to find their rhythm during the opening stages as they battled through cold and wet conditions. Chippa eventually settled into the contest and took the lead in the 23rd minute.
Justice Figuareido delivered an excellent cross from the left flank, picking out Mlotshwa’s run. The debutant rose highest and produced a well-placed header to put Chippa 1-0 ahead.
The hosts came close to doubling their advantage two minutes later when Figuareido found himself with a good opportunity inside the box, but he fired his effort over the crossbar.
Mlotshwa also came close to adding a second before halftime, sending another header over the target as Chippa continued to create opportunities.
Richards Bay threatened towards the end of the first half, but Chippa went into the interval with their 1-0 advantage intact.
The Natal Rich Boyz wasted little time finding an equaliser after the restart. Just three minutes into the second half, Nashixwa unleashed a superb long-range effort that beat Chippa goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to make it 1-1.
Chippa dominated much of the remainder of the encounter and came close to reclaiming the lead on several occasions, but they were unable to find a decisive second goal.
The points were ultimately shared, with both sides taking a point from the encounter.
Richards Bay return to Betway Premiership action on Saturday, 15 August, when they travel to face Durban City. Chippa United will host Orlando Pirates the following day.
Chippa United 1-1 Richards Bay
Mlotshwa 23′ — Nashixwa 48′
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