by Dzudzie Faith Netshisaulu
Sekhukhune United and TS Galaxy shared the points after playing to a 0-0 draw in their Betway Premiership clash at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday evening.
The stalemate lifted Babina Noko to sixth place on the table with seven points from five matches, while the Rockets moved up to ninth on six points from the same number of games. Both sides, however, will feel they missed an opportunity after producing subdued displays that lacked the urgency and cutting edge needed to claim all three points.
The opening stages produced only half-chances, with neither team able to take control. The first clear sight of goal arrived in the 24th minute when Edson Khumalo delivered from the right for Sedwyn George, but the Galaxy striker glanced his header narrowly wide of the near post.
Sekhukhune responded just over 10 minutes later when D’Angelo Kazeem produced a dangerous cross from the left, only for Bethuel Muzeu to fail to apply the decisive touch in front of goal.
Galaxy had the best chance of the first half shortly before the interval. A sharp passing move opened up the home defence and sent Mpho Mvelase through, but he failed to make the most of the opportunity as his attempted lob over the advancing Melusi Buthelezi went awry.
Sekhukhune began the second half with greater purpose, boosted by the introductions of Lehlohonolo Mojela and Mokibelo Ramabu at the break. The changes gave the hosts more energy going forward, but they were unable to turn their improved momentum into a breakthrough.
After that early second-half spell, the contest drifted as both teams struggled to establish any attacking rhythm. Sekhukhune looked the more fluent side in open play, while Galaxy offered the occasional threat from set pieces, but neither did enough to force a winner.
The result leaves both clubs with work to do as the campaign begins to take shape, with attacking sharpness likely to be a priority in training during the week ahead.
Sekhukhune will return to league action next weekend away to Stellenbosch FC, while TS Galaxy are set to host Kruger United.
