SuperSport stutter to stalemate with Galaxy

SUPERSPORT United’s chances of securing a first Premiership title since 2010 appear to be getting slimmer after they were held to a 0-0 draw by TS Galaxy at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville last night.

Matsatsantsa went into the game without their two best finishers, Bradley Grobler and Thamsanqa Gabuza, due to injury and the absence of the seasoned forwards showed as Kaitano Tembo’s side struggled to create opportunities.

Galaxy dominated possession in the first half and had better scoring opportunities.

Ronwen Williams showed why he is regarded as the best South African goalkeeper as he pulled off two great saves in the 22nd and 26th minutes of the game to deny Galaxy midfielder Khayelihle Shozi from close range.

Teboho Mokoena had a chance to put SuperSport ahead in the 42nd minute after Jamie Webber chipped the ball into the Galaxy area but Marlon Heugh came out, making himself big which prevented Mokoena from getting his shot on target.

SuperSport came out stronger in the second half and had much more intensity of the game but their rhythm began to wane from around the 75th minute.

Galaxy substitute Sphiwe Mahlangu killed off whatever chances Galaxy would have had of winning the game in the 77th minute as he was shown a deserved red card following a dangerous studs-up challenge on Sipho Mbule.

Mahlangu made history for the wrong reasons as he effectively became the first Rockets player to be red-carded since their promotion to the top-flight.

The result means that SuperSport’s frustrating run of form continues as they have not won in four games.

Tembo’s side will next be in action against Stellenbosch FC at the Danie Craven Stadium in two weeks.

SAMUEL SHIVAMBU BackpagePix RONWEN Williams of Supersport United screams advice to his teammates during their clash against TS Galaxy at Lucas Moripe Stadium, Pretoria yesterday. |