Golden Arrows and Chippa United share goalless draw in Betway Premiership opener

Golden Arrows and Chippa United began their Betway Premiership campaigns with a 0-0 draw on Saturday afternoon, despite the hosts creating the clearer chances in a closely contested league opener.

Abafana Besthende, who finished sixth last season, were hoping to mark the start of a new campaign with victory after parting company with coach Manqoba Mngqithi and appointing Pitso Dladla.

Chippa United, meanwhile, started their first full season under Brandon Truter, who took charge towards the end of the previous campaign.

Truter encouraged his side to play positively from the outset and Chippa created the first meaningful opening. Justice Figuareido moved into space on the far side of the penalty area before cutting inside and curling an attempt towards the top corner. His effort, however, sailed over the crossbar.

Golden Arrows responded quickly. Thokozani Khumalo delivered an accurate cross from the right that picked out Ntando Mabaso, but the forward could not direct his attempt on target.

The home side then began to exert more pressure as half-time approached. New signing Ronaldo Van Neel produced a quick shot from the edge of the six-yard box, but Chippa goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, returning to the side, was equal to it.

Golden Arrows continued to look the more threatening team after the interval. Khumalo moved infield and used a shoulder drop to create room before sending a curling effort towards goal. The attempt beat Nwabali but struck the top of the crossbar.

Van Neel went close again during a spell of sustained pressure from Abafana Besthende. He progressed down the near side of the area, cut inside and aimed a low shot towards the far corner. Nwabali reacted well to push the ball behind for a corner.

Chippa struggled to turn the momentum in their favour, although former Orlando Pirates midfielder Goodman Mosele tried to relieve the pressure with a powerful low effort from distance. His shot did not trouble the target.

Golden Arrows continued to have the better opportunities as the match entered stoppage time. Substitute Sabelo Sithole was presented with a chance at close range, but Nwabali made a point-blank save at his near post to preserve Chippa’s clean sheet.

Neither side could find the decisive touch, leaving Golden Arrows and Chippa United with a point each from their opening Betway Premiership fixture.