Staff Reporter.
Chippa United moved closer to retaining their DStv Premiership status as they held Richards Bay United to a 1-1 draw at the Richards Bay Stadium on Saturday evening.
Chippa made five changes with Nyiko Mobbie, Riaan Hanamub, Ayabulela Knoqobe, Bienvenu Eva Nga and Sizwe Mdlinzo coming into the side. Three changes were made by Richards Bay as Thabani Dube, Victor Bakah and Nzuzo Mkhize making wtheir way into the line-up.
Both sides were cautious in the opening stages, knocking the ball around and looking for openings.
Chippa went ahead in the 57th minute as Peter Maoisane calmly finished off from close range. Siyabonga Vilane drew level for Richards Bay in the 73rd minute after heading home.
With it still being uncertain whether Royal AM will pitch for their final two games against the Chilli Boys and Richards Bay, it remains to be seen if the Eastern Cape-based side have probably done enough to retain their top-flight status for next season.
The Chippa defence did not create too many clear-cut opportunities in the first half but they showed their superior organizational abilities as their goalkeeper Ismail Watenga was also a spectator for the best part of the first half.
Richards Bay dangerman Khanyiso Mayo was denied opportunities in the game as he failed to exert himself.
Uganda international Watenga had to pull off a great save at the start of the second half after Riaan Hanamub suffered a lapse in concentration following a long-ball from the home side.
The result gives Chippa the upper head in terms of retaining their DSTV Premiership status.
Richards Bay are set to play Royal AM on Tuesday, but it is unlikely that the Pietermaritzburg based side will show up.