Kaizer Chiefs extend perfect DStv Diski Challenge run

Kaizer Chiefs preserved their perfect start to the DStv Diski Challenge season with a seventh successive victory, beating AmaZulu 3-1 at Dobsonville Stadium on Saturday.

Neo Bohloko struck twice in a fast-paced first half to put Amakhosi firmly in control and deepen AmaZulu’s difficult afternoon. Kwanele Mbayi pulled one back for Usuthu after the interval, but Matala Makhubo restored Chiefs’ advantage to secure the points.

Mamelodi Sundowns remain second after a 2-1 victory against Sekhukhune United at the UJ AW Muller Stadium. Kamohelo Mareletse opened the scoring before Simphiwe Mlondo converted a penalty to give Sundowns a two-goal lead at half-time.

Timeletso Mepha reduced the deficit for Babina Noko in the second half, but Sundowns held on. Masandawana are now five points behind Chiefs, who remain the only side to have beaten them this season. Sekhukhune slipped to fifth after suffering back-to-back defeats.

Orlando Pirates climbed to fourth after recording their third consecutive win, overcoming Polokwane City 2-1 at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday.

The Buccaneers came through a difficult first half and moved ahead early in the second when Aphelele Nzimande scored. Rise and Shine equalised late and threatened to take a point, but Thandolwethu Hlophe restored Pirates’ lead with five minutes remaining to earn victory for the defending champions.

Stellenbosch FC revived their campaign with a 1-0 win against Milford FC at the Idas Valley Stadium. Jordan Mack’s goal put the Maroons ahead at half-time after they had been looking to recover from their defeat by AmaZulu. Milford could not find a response and their debut campaign continued to lose momentum.

TS Galaxy and Chippa United shared a 2-2 draw at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium. Liqhawe Qawu scored twice to put the Rockets in a strong position, particularly by the interval, but the Chili Boys fought back after half-time to claim another draw. Chippa’s winless run now stands at six matches.

Richards Bay FC moved up to 10th with a second successive victory, beating Kruger United 3-1 at the Princess Magogo Stadium. Mpilwenhle Dlamini and Mbatha scored for the Natal Rich Boys, with an own goal completing their tally. Sfundo Sibanyoni replied for the Mpumalanga side.

It was Richards Bay’s first run of consecutive wins, while the debutants fell to 15th after a third straight defeat.

Durban City also secured consecutive victories for the first time this season, beating Siwelele FC 1-0 at the UJ AW Muller Stadium. With the hosts reduced to 10 players, Mthobisi Zondo scored the decisive goal after a goalless first half. Siwelele dropped to eighth after successive defeats, while City continued their recovery from a winless start.

Golden Arrows moved into third place after defeating bottom side Marumo Gallants FC 4-1 at the King Zwelithini Stadium. Abafana Besthende led 4-0 at half-time and secured a second consecutive victory, while Bahlabana Ba Ntwa suffered a fourth successive defeat. They remain rooted to the bottom after scoring a consolation goal in the second half.