Marumo Gallants held by Polokwane City as wait for first Betway Premiership win continues

Marumo Gallants remain without a victory in the Betway Premiership after twice coming from behind to draw 2-2 with Polokwane City on Friday evening.

Gallants, who had lost their previous four matches, fell behind in the third minute when Tidimalo Molokwane met a flick-on from a long throw-in near the front post and volleyed past the home defence.

The hosts responded with sustained pressure during the opening quarter and levelled through Mxolisi Kunene. The forward collected the ball outside the area, created space with a shoulder drop and found the bottom corner with a well-placed finish.

Polokwane City restored their advantage five minutes later. A cross-field pass released Bonginkosi Dlamini on the far side, allowing him to move towards the edge of the six-yard box before finishing confidently.

Marumo Gallants came close to another equaliser when Etemesi Injili turned sharply and ran in behind the defence after a misplaced pass. He was one-on-one with Ngwenya but sent his effort wide of the target.

The home side did not have to wait long for their second equaliser. A minute before half-time, Polokwane City defender Lebohang Nkaki misjudged the flight of a long ball into the area and diverted it into his own net.

After surrendering the lead twice before the interval, Polokwane City made changes in an effort to improve their defensive organisation. Substitute goalkeeper Lindokuhle Mathebula and defender Tlou Nkwe were introduced as Rise and Shine looked to protect the point.

City created the first significant opportunity of the second half shortly after the restart. A knockdown from a throw-in fell to Juan Mutudza, whose volley forced goalkeeper Emile Lako into a sprawling save.

The intensity and attacking quality of the first half failed to carry through after the interval. Both sides became more compact, which limited the number of clear chances and ensured the match ended level.

The result leaves Marumo Gallants still searching for their first win after five matches. They remain 15th in the table, while Polokwane City continue to find their feet under manager Willy Moloto after recording only one victory so far.

Gallants were seeking maximum points to revive their campaign when Phuti Mohafe faced his former club, with both teams needing a positive result. Instead, the draw extended their difficult start to the season.

Marumo Gallants’ next three league fixtures are away to AmaZulu FC, at home against Orlando Pirates and away to Sekhukhune United.

Polokwane City will host Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu FC before travelling to face Siwelele FC.