Mamelodi Sundowns, for the third straight DStv Premiership game in a row, have failed to record a win after a goalless draw affair with Golden Arrows at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday.
The Sundowns coaching crew made four changes to the side that lost 2-1 to Kaizer Chiefs on Sunday with Rushine de Reuck, Aubrey Modiba, Siphelele Mkhulise and Kermit Erasmus all back in the starting line-up.
Sundowns threatened very early in the game. Erasmus turned well in the box and sent an effort across goal but Siphelele Mkhulise failed to connect with the former’s effort at goal.
It was Arrows turn to test the stability of the Brazilians at the back. Knox Mutizwa was well positioned to tap home from range but Mosa Lebusa stretched to take the ball away from him and was lucky not to have conceded an own-goal.
Arrows had the first shot on target through Mutizwa, who was released clear on goal by a sumptuous through-ball from Gumede, but his effort was straight at Denis Onyango.
As expected, Sundowns started to dominate in the second half as they searched for ways to breach the visitor’s backline.
Zwane turned his marker and embarked on a mesmerizing run at the defence of the opponents but his shot from range was confidently gathered by Sifiso Mlungwana.
As the champions kept pushing forward in search of the breakthrough, Gift Motupa was introduced in place of Andile Jali and went straight into the attack to partner Erasmus up front.
After a series of substitutions by either side, chances were few as Arrows stood strong for the rest of the game to nick a point.
The Brazilians remain top despite the draw but they now only lead by a point and with two games in hand to play. While Arrows stay third and are five points behind Masandawana.
It doesn’t get any easier for the leaders as they face another crunch clash against Pirates on Sunday. Should they fail to win and Amazulu wins at the weekend, Usuthu will assume temporary leadership of the table.
Sundowns are still well placed to win the league given their outstanding games but they must start to record wins fast to calm any fears of a late title collapse.