Durban City held by Stellenbosch FC as home winless run continues

Durban City’s wait for a first home victory of the season continued on Tuesday as they were held to a goalless draw by Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership.

The result leaves both sides searching for momentum after a slow start to the campaign. Durban City were aiming to recover from last week’s narrow defeat by Golden Arrows and move back into the top eight, while Stellenbosch FC wanted to build on their recent victory over Kruger United.

Stellenbosch FC made the brighter start and came close to breaking the deadlock after goalkeeper Federic Asare spilled a ball inside the area. George Matlou reacted quickest but lifted his effort over the crossbar when presented with a good opportunity.

Durban City gradually settled and produced their best attacking move of the opening period when Gaston Sirino combined with Samkelo Maseko in a quick one-touch exchange. The move opened up the Stellenbosch FC defence, but Given Msimango was in the right place to clear the resulting effort off the goal-line.

The hosts continued to press during the closing stages of the first half. Sirino moved towards the edge of the penalty area and received a cutback before trying his luck from a promising position, although the Uruguayan midfielder’s shot failed to seriously test Stellenbosch FC goalkeeper Sage Stephens.

Neither side was able to establish control after the interval, with the match remaining closely contested and short of clear-cut chances.

Durban City threatened again when a delivery from the wide area found Bandile Shandu inside the box. However, the fullback could not make the necessary contact to direct the ball towards goal.

Stellenbosch FC coach Gavin Hunt attempted to change the course of the game in the 61st minute by making three substitutions. Quwan Plaatjies, Thabiso Lebitso and Chumani Butsaka were introduced, replacing Raoul Daniels, Kgaogelo Ramushu and Bradley Grobler.

Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Tashreeq Morris then came close to giving Durban City the lead. Keletso Sifumba laid the ball off inside the area, allowing Morris to take a speculative effort, but the chance was smothered before it could trouble the visitors.

Stellenbosch FC responded soon afterwards, regaining some attacking pressure through Sinoxolo Kwayiba. His teasing attempt exposed uncertainty in the Durban City defence, but Asare made a brave save to keep the scores level.

Both teams had opportunities in the closing stages. Jean Lubumba came particularly close with a point-blank header that flashed across the face of goal, but neither side could find the decisive touch.

The draw extends Durban City’s winless run on home soil and means the teams remain short of the consistency needed to challenge higher up the Betway Premiership table.

Durban City’s next three league matches are away to Orlando Pirates and Milford FC, followed by a home meeting with AmaZulu FC.

Stellenbosch FC will host Sekhukhune United before travelling to Kruger United and then visiting Kaizer Chiefs.