Lowly Highlands, Stars in four-goal draw

PREMIER Soccer League strugglers failed to put a gloss on their respective disastrous campaigns so far when they played to a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Makhulong Stadium in Tembisa last night.

The shared points left Gordon Igesund’s Highlands Park struggling in 13th spot on the Absa Premiership table on 13 points, with half of their matches for the season played.

Cavan Johnson’s Platinum Stars remain in 12th position, with 14 points from as many matches in what was the two clubs’ maiden meeting in the top flight.

Referee Khulekani Thusi had to be escorted through the tunnel by security as the angry Highlands fans felt aggrieved by some of his decisions.

The Lions of the North roared to a two nil lead midway through the first half with goals in a space of three minutes from midfielder Mothobi Mvala and striker Carlton Mashumba.

But the Highlands defence soon lost their heads as Dikwena found their way back into the match with two quick goals of their own – off the boots of Robert N’gambi and Benson Shilongo – to steal a valuable point for Johnson’s Stars.

Meanwhile, title-chasing BidVest Wits had to settle for a share of the spoils after they were held to a 1-1 draw by a 10-men Maritzburg United at the Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg.

Cuthbert Malajila gave Wits the lead in the 70th minute after he finished off a beautifully crafted buildup initiated by teenage prodigy Phakamani Mahlambi.

But the hosts came storming back when Mohau Mokate equalised four minutes later following a goal-mouth scramble.

Maritzburg were reduced to 10 men just before the half-time break after Kurt Lentjies was sent off for a bad challenge on Phumlani Ntshangase.

But the home side never floundered under the pressure, despite the one-man disadvantage, and not only were they able to claw their way back and equalise, they also held their nerve to escape with a point against a team many tip for the PSL title.