SuperSport United became the first team in the DStv Premiership to score against Mamelodi Sundowns this season in a 2-2 draw at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday evening.

United were the first to threaten in the game when on-form striker Thamsanqa Gabuza was determined to give his team the lead with a shot towards goal that hit the woodwork. Masandawana responded shortly with their own attempt at goal by Namibian international Peter Shalulile with a turn outside the box but could not find the target.

That hostility wasn’t reserved as Matsatsantsa pressed the defending champions relentlessly, however Downs continued dominating possession in a match played almost exclusively in their opponents half. Gabuza’s came close again with a second attempt at goal that was cleared off the line by Mosa Lebusa.

Bafana Ba Style continued with their attacking football, Lakay nearly broke the deadlock when his in-swinging free-kick forced an alert save from Ronwen Williams as the ball went inches over the goalposts.

Themba Zwane and Shalulile’s combinations in United’s half set Masandawana on a good scoring opportunity, but another shot on target met the goalposts. Downs’ determination to score opened up spaces in United’s defense, an own goal towards Williams nearly punished the visitors but the Bafana Bafana international goalie set the danger aside.

The Brazilians were rampant and fearless in searching for the opener, left footer Maema put pay to their efforts just before the half time break to give the hosts a lead in the thrilling derby. Shortly after the second half of the encounter had resumed Masandawana’s intention on earning all the bragging rights was set by their goal poacher Shalulile who added to his goal scoring tally, the Namibian international striker scoring goal number 9 in 11 league appearances.

Matsatsantsa proved to be no pushovers in the encounter with their fighting spirit and chased the game from behind while giving Onyango no rest with threatening shots on target and building on their conference. United’s youngster Jemmy Webber’s long range shot at goal bounced off Onyango’s chest and was quickly finished off by Gamphani Lungu as SuperSport broke Downs’ record of clean sheets.

The drama was not over at Loftus, the defending Champions did not back down after the goal as they continued to rotate the ball in midfield but Matsatsantsa were now confident in contesting for the ball. After a blur of quick passes, SuperSport earned a free-kick that was well taken by Teboho Mokwena before firing a shot to the keeper’s left to give his side the equalizer and a shocking wave to the Yellow Nation.

With added time to play, United were pushing forward in numbers to attack but the solid defense of Downs put off the threats, this time former United Grant Kekana was spectacular with a sliding tackle to deny Matsatsantsa any goal scoring opportunities. Masandawana continue to hold the number one spot in the DStv Premiership despite the draw against United.

Soka25east.com