Soweto Derby Half Time Report: Chaine gifts Chiefs equaliser
Sipho Chaine’s blunder has turned the Soweto Derby on its head, and it is 1-1 at half-time at FNB Stadium.
Orlando Pirates’ trusted goalkeeper fumbled what looked like an easy save in the 30th minute, and Kaizer Chiefs did not need a second invitation.
Pirates struck first. Yanela Mbuthuma, who was shielded earlier this month after missing chances against African Stars, got a huge slice of luck in the 24th minute.
His attempt took a cruel ricochet off Thabo Moloisane and looped past Brandon Petersen to give the Buccaneers the lead.
Six minutes later, the pendulum swung. Mfundo Vilakazi sent in a cross that Chaine should have gathered. Instead, the ball slipped through his hands and fell kindly for Pule Mmodi, who toe-poked it home to level.
It was a costly error from a keeper who has been one of the stars of Pirates’ meanness at the back. The Buccaneers came into the derby having conceded just one goal all season, and Chaine had been a key part of that record.
Pirates are chasing a win that would take them top of the Betway Premiership, extending a 21-match unbeaten league run. Chiefs, winless in the league against Pirates in their last five meetings, are desperate to end their draw-heavy form and ease the pressure on Fernando Da Cruz.
With the teams at each other’s throats and the second half still to come, the biggest game in South African football is wide open.
Alternative headlines:
Chaine Howler Gifts Chiefs Equaliser as Soweto Derby Is Level at Half-Time
Fumble, Deflection, Drama: Soweto Derby 1-1 at the Break
Mmodi Pounces on Chaine Error as Chiefs Peg Back Pirates
