Mamelodi Sundowns extended their unbeaten run in the DStv Premiership to 21 games after playing a goalless draw with AmaZulu on Wednesday afternoon.
As the Brazilians aim to achieve a remarkable feat by going the season unbeaten, Benni McCarthy’s Amazulu were tagged as one of the sides that could bring that run to an end. The battle between two of the most consistent sides this season was one not to miss and in the end, both sides could only share the spoils.
Sundowns had shot-stopper Denis Onyango, Mosa Lebusa, Lyle Lakay and Lebohang Maboe back in the starting XI while the visitors fielded Thabo Qalinge for his first start. Elsewhere, Thembela Sikhakhane, Zukile Kewuti and Siphelele Mthembu all returned to the side.
The hosts have been excellent this term and did disrupt the rhythm of the Champions as the Brazilians struggled to string passes together in the opening minutes of the game.
The first real chance of the game came in the 25th minute when a long throw-in got to Peter Shalulile but his left-footed low shot went past the bottom corner by inches.
Moments later, Themba Zwane missed the chance to open the scoring. He latched onto a through ball but his heavy touch let him down and Veli Mothwa was able to clear for the hosts.
Benni McCarthy’s men were close to the game’s opener through Qalinge just before the break but his explosive run coupled with an effort from range failed to trouble Onyango as the half came to an end.
Shortly after the break, the game burst into life as either side had great chances to go in front. Augustine Mulenga rattled the upright while Mothwa denied Zwane with a wonderful save at the other end.
Sphesihle Maduna almost made it 1-0 to Usuthu, with his header from Qalinge’s cross from range going past the near post early in the second half.
The biggest chance of the match fell to Shalulile in the closing quarter of the game. Firstly, Modiba’s effort was saved by Mothwa and the rebound by Shalulile missed the unguarded post.
Amazulu could have won in the end but the result is a reflection of the two team’s position on the log. Sundowns stay six points clear of Usuthu at the top of the log and maintain their unbeaten status after a formidable foe.