Chippa United’s winless run reaches five games after Milford stalemate

Chippa United’s difficult start to the Betway Premiership season continued as they were held to a goalless draw by newly promoted Milford FC.

The result extends Chippa’s winless run to five matches and increases the pressure on coach Truter, with his side unable to find a way past a Milford team that defended resolutely for long periods.

Milford made three changes after their 2-0 defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns. Goalkeeper Lungile Nkosi was handed his top-flight debut, while Mvelo Zikakayo and Sicelo Masilela returned to the starting line-up under coach Xanti Pupuma.

The visitors had impressed in their previous match against Sundowns despite losing in Pretoria, but they had been unable to convert several promising opportunities. Against Chippa, they produced another disciplined display and secured their second draw of the campaign.

The opening half offered little in front of goal. The match began at an open pace, but neither side created a clear-cut opportunity during the first 20 minutes. Instead, both teams were limited to attempts from distance as they looked for a way to break the deadlock.

That pattern continued until the interval. Nkosi enjoyed a quiet first-half debut, with Chippa failing to properly test him and leaving their supporters frustrated. The home side struggled to turn possession and attacking intent into meaningful chances.

Chippa responded positively after the break and quickly took control of the contest. Their best opportunity came when Justice Figuareido was played through on goal, but the winger fired wide of the post with only Nkosi to beat.

It was the clearest opening of the match and a costly miss for Chippa. Figuareido continued to cause problems with his pace on the left wing as the home side pushed forward, but poor decision-making in the final third repeatedly undermined their attacks.

For much of the second half, Chippa were the only team that appeared likely to score. Milford were content to absorb the pressure, protect their clean sheet and wait for opportunities to counter.

Despite their sustained efforts, Chippa could not find a breakthrough. Milford’s point lifts them to fifth place in the Betway Premiership, while Chippa are left searching for their first win after another frustrating result.

The challenge does not get any easier for Truter’s side. Chippa United’s next league match is at home against African champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who have had no difficulty finding the net this season.

After that, Chippa face an away fixture against TS Galaxy before hosting Kruger United.

Milford will next welcome Richards Bay, followed by a home meeting with Durban City. Their third listed fixture is away against Golden Arrows.