Durban City’s Betway Premiership clash with Stellenbosch FC at the Chatsworth Stadium on Friday night ended in a 0-0 draw.
The first half was for the most part played in driving rain, with both sides showing some good build-up play on the slick surface, without either goalkeeper being overly tested.
The home side did have a couple of openings. That included a snap shot on the half-volley from Trevor Mokwena, his effort from outside the big box flashing just wide of the left-hand upright.
There was also a long range drive from Jean Lwamba, which was well struck, but straight at Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens.
Stephens also denied Samkelo Maseko, who reacted quickly to try and sneak in after Stephens left his box with the ball at his feet – the goalie just recovering in time.
Durban City keeper Frederick Asare didn’t have too much to do, but was on top of his game in the 38th minute as he reacted sharply at the near post to tip an effort from Tshegofatso Mabasa around the post.
Mokwena was to enjoy the first chance of the second half, his measured volley following a cross from the right flying narrowly over.
A few minutes later Durban City found themselves with a numerical advantage after Mthetheleli Mthiyane was shown a red card for the Cape side.
It was Asare though who was next called into action when he made a splendid diving save at full stretch to keep out a rocket of an effort from Phili Langelihle.
City had a chance of their own soon after when Saziso Magawana whipped in a dangerous free kick which picked out Siphamandla Ncanana, but the scoreline remained unchanged after the skipper got his timing wrong.
The wet conditions did little to dampen the spirits of the home fans, who were in full voice in the stands as the match went on, as City probed for openings in the Stellenbosch defence.
And the supporters nearly had something to celebrate when Ronaldo Maarman sprinted down the right and crossed for Letsie Koapeng, who unfortunately was unable to keep his first-time effort under the crossbar with two minutes of regulation time to play.
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