Sundowns fail to capitalise on Soweto derby stalemate

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Mamelodi Sundowns missed the chance to move top of the Betway Premiership after a 0-0 draw with Richards Bay on Sunday.

With Orlando Pirates dropping points in the Soweto derby earlier in the day, Sundowns had an opportunity to take control of the title race. Instead, they were forced to settle for a second successive draw.

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Sundowns dominated possession at uMhlathuze Stadium but struggled to break down a compact Richards Bay defence. Their best chance of the first half fell to Khulumani Ndamane, whose header from a corner was saved by goalkeeper Ian Otieno.

The visitors were disrupted midway through the half when Arthur Sales was forced off through injury, with Monnapule Saleng introduced earlier than planned.

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Richards Bay remained a threat on the counter, with Ronwen Williams called into action to deny Sanele Barns and Thulani Gumede on a number of occasions.

The pattern continued after the break, with Sundowns controlling the ball but lacking the final pass. Miguel Cardoso introduced Lebogang Mothiba and Thapelo Morena in search of a breakthrough, but clear chances remained limited.

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Richards Bay nearly stole the result late on, only for Keanu Cupido to produce a crucial block, before Williams denied Barns again.

Sundowns had one final chance in stoppage time, but Peter Shalulile’s effort drifted wide.

The result leaves Sundowns second on the table, still with a game in hand, while Richards Bay extend their unbeaten run.

Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

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Dylan Johnson