Chiefs held by Golden Arrows as both sides settle for goalless draw

Kaizer Chiefs were held to a 0-0 draw by Golden Arrows at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday afternoon, extending their run of stalemates this season.

The result was Chiefs’ fourth draw of the campaign, while Golden Arrows have now shared the points in five league matches.

Renaldo Leaner made his debut for Chiefs in goal after joining the club from Sekhukhune United before the start of the season. He replaced captain Brandon Petersen, who is expected to be sidelined for at least four weeks with a knee injury.

Petersen had faced heavy scrutiny after making a series of costly errors, but Leaner made an immediate impact when he was tested in the ninth minute.

The goalkeeper produced an excellent reflex save to keep out Junior Dion, who had attempted an acrobatic volley from Philani Khumalo’s outstanding cross.

Dion came close again in the 21st minute but was unable to connect with Sithole’s precise delivery into the area.

Chiefs were awarded a penalty six minutes later after Golden Arrows defender Ntandoyenkosi Mabasa brought down Faiz Abraham. However, Thakasani Mbanjwa kept the score level with a superb one-handed save from Lebohang Maboe’s spot-kick.

Maboe was unable to continue after suffering what appeared to be a hamstring injury early in the second half. Adolf Mtasingwa came on in his place.

Although Chiefs had more entries into the penalty area before the interval, they struggled to produce clear chances beyond the missed penalty.

Pule Mmodi and Abraham caused problems from the wide areas, but Chiefs lacked a recognised target man in the box. That left the pair holding on to possession for too long at times, allowing Golden Arrows to win the ball back on several occasions.

Chiefs introduced Godspower Ighodaro midway through the second half in an attempt to provide a focal point in attack. The change did not lead to a breakthrough, however, as both teams continued to struggle to create opportunities.

Golden Arrows finished the match more strongly and fashioned several late openings. Their best chance fell to Thokozani Khumalo in the 90th minute, but he missed from close range when it appeared easier to score.

Neither side could find a decisive moment, leaving Chiefs to settle for another draw and Golden Arrows with their fifth league stalemate of the season.