Pirates held by Chiefs in derby draw

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Pirates dropped points in the title race after a hard-fought Soweto derby draw against Chiefs at FNB Stadium.

The clash at FNB Stadium was delayed by 45 minutes due to crowd congestion before Pirates took control of the early stages.

Pirates created the better chances before the break. Relebohile Mofokeng tested Brandon Petersen, while Oswin Appollis had a goal ruled out for offside. Petersen was called into action again to deny Yanela Mbuthuma from close range.

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The hosts were forced into a change before half-time when Tshepang Moremi went off injured, with Patrick Maswanganyi introduced.

Chiefs made the breakthrough in the 62nd minute. Wandile Duba drove down the right and picked out Pule Mmodi, who finished to give the visitors the lead.

Pirates responded with 15 minutes remaining. Kamogelo Sebelebele reacted quickest after Petersen parried a shot, firing home from close range to level the score.

Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither could find a decisive goal.

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The result leaves Pirates with work to do in the title race, while Chiefs continue their improved run of form following a difficult start to the season.

Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

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Dylan Johnson