Sekhukhune United held by TS Galaxy as Melusi Buthelezi claims third clean sheet

Sekhukhune United’s first match under new head coach Papi Zothwane ended in a goalless draw against TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership on Saturday evening.

The result gave former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi his third clean sheet in four league appearances for Sekhukhune United this season, strengthening his position in the race for the Golden Glove award.

Sekhukhune were playing their first game since parting company with Cedric Kaze earlier this week, with Zothwane taking charge of the first team. The hosts were also looking to recover from three consecutive defeats by Orlando Pirates in all competitions.

Neither side managed to create a clear opportunity during a cautious opening 20 minutes. Both teams were eager to return to winning ways, but attacks repeatedly broke down before reaching the penalty area.

The match began to open up after the half-hour mark. Sekhukhune midfielder Tshepo Mokoane came closest to breaking the deadlock when he unleashed a powerful effort that went narrowly past the upright with TS Galaxy goalkeeper Ira Tape beaten.

Galaxy gradually found openings of their own before the interval. Sedwyn George missed a good chance from close range when he headed wide, while Mpho Mvelase wasted the best opportunity of the first half.

Mvelase was played through on goal and found himself one-on-one with Buthelezi, but he sent his shot well wide of the target.

Zothwane responded at half-time by making two attacking changes. Mcedi Vandala and Oageng Phiri were withdrawn, with Simon Ramabu and Lehlogonolo Mojela introduced for the second half.

Despite the changes, it was TS Galaxy who nearly took the lead shortly after the hour. Edson Khumalo found Mlondi Mncwango inside the box, and Mncwango controlled the ball before firing wide.

The missed chances summed up a frustrating contest, with both sides struggling to make the most of promising positions in the final third.

Sekhukhune’s Ohizu came closest to finding a winner late on, but his header was directed straight at Tape. Galaxy were unable to produce a decisive response, leaving the points to be shared.

Buthelezi’s latest shut-out marks a significant improvement in his fortunes after he made no league appearances for Orlando Pirates last season. He now has three clean sheets in four league matches for Sekhukhune, while Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine leads the Golden Glove standings with four clean sheets this campaign.

Sekhukhune United’s next three league fixtures are away matches against Stellenbosch FC and Richards Bay, followed by a home game against Marumo Gallants.

TS Galaxy will host Kruger United and Chippa United before travelling to face Polokwane City.