Kaizer Chiefs held by Polokwane City after Brandon Petersen own goal

Kaizer Chiefs missed the opportunity to climb to second in the Betway Premiership after being held to a 1-1 draw by Polokwane City on Saturday.

Lebohang Maboe put Chiefs ahead in the 29th minute, but Brandon Petersen’s own goal in the second half ensured the points were shared.

Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz made two defensive changes after criticising his side’s performance at the back following their win over Siwelele. Bafana Bafana defender Bradley Cross and Reeve Frosler came into the starting line-up, with Zitha Kwinika and Dillan Solomons dropping to the bench.

Polokwane, known as Rise and Shine, started brightly at home and immediately put pressure on the Soweto giants, who had conceded freely in their previous matches.

The hosts created danger from crosses, with Chiefs goalkeeper Petersen required to deal with headers from Ndamulelo Maphangule to keep his side level during the opening stages.

Chiefs grew into the contest after the water break and took the lead in the 29th minute. Pule Mmodi delivered an excellent cross into the area, where Maboe had been left unmarked. The forward brought the ball under control before calmly finishing past Oscarine Masuluke.

The goal gave the visitors greater confidence in attack, although they were unable to extend their advantage before half-time.

Chiefs suffered another setback shortly after the hour mark when captain Inacio Miguel was forced off with a knock. Da Cruz brought Kwinika into the match, while Siphesihle Ndlovu was replaced in midfield by Adolf Mtasingwa.

Polokwane’s changes then helped them find an equaliser. Substitute Giovanni Philander sent an in-swinging corner into the area and the ball ended up in the net after another serious mistake by Petersen, who was left unchallenged as he failed to deal with the delivery.

Da Cruz responded by introducing Luke Baartman and Solomons for the final 15 minutes as Chiefs pushed for a winning goal, but neither side could find a second.

Polokwane City’s next five league fixtures are against AmaZulu at home, Siwelele FC away, TS Galaxy at home, Kruger United at home and Durban City away.

Kaizer Chiefs will face Golden Arrows away, Stellenbosch FC at home, Orlando Pirates away and AmaZulu at home in their next four league matches.