DailySun
Levy Mashiane made a significant impression on Kaizer Chiefs as Royal AM fought back from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw during the Betway Premiership match at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
Chiefs seemed to be in command for a victory after a strong first half, but Royal AM’s determined performance in the second half shifted the tide of the game.
Both sides entered the match looking to secure consecutive wins. Royal AM had recently endured a nail-biting 3-2 loss to Golden Arrows, while Chiefs celebrated a 2-0 triumph over Richards Bay earlier in the week, even after being reduced to ten men due to Reeve Frosler’s red card.
Chiefs’ head coach Nasreddine Nabi made two crucial adjustments to his roster, with Dillan Solomons stepping in for the suspended Frosler and Gastón Sirino taking over Pule Modi’s position in the attack.
The match kicked off in thrilling style for the home team, quickly establishing an early lead with a goal from Ashley Du Preez. A brilliantly executed through ball from Yusuf Maart split the Royal AM defense, allowing Du Preez to finish smoothly beyond the goalkeeper.
In the 13th minute, Chiefs widened their lead when Wandile Duba tapped in a clever cut-back from Solomons, who had effortlessly maneuvered through the Royal AM defense.
Chiefs appeared ready to dominate as they launched a series of attacking plays.
Du Preez struck the post with a powerful attempt, Duba’s header was valiantly cleared off the line, and Maart missed a crucial opportunity to extend the lead, failing in a one-on-one situation with a delicate chip.
However, Royal AM emerged after halftime with renewed energy. Head coach John Maduka brought on Smiso Gumede for Andile Mpisane to bolster the midfield, and the change proved effective almost immediately.
Ayabulela Maxwele reduced the deficit just six minutes into the second half with a striking long-range effort that caught Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Peterson off guard. This goal sparked Royal AM’s confidence as they ramped up the pressure on the Chiefs defense.
Recognizing the shift in dynamics, Chiefs coach Nabi opted for a triple substitution to reclaim control. Yet, Royal AM’s dominance became increasingly evident in the closing moments. Mashiane skillfully lifted the ball over Chiefs defender Given Msimango and surged forward to equalize, ensuring Maduka’s team earned a well-deserved draw.
