Sekhukhune drop more points as Gallants fight back for a draw

Sekhukhune United let more points slip as they were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Marumo Gallants in their Betway Premiership clash at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Saturday.

Elias Rammala opened the scoring early in the second half, but the in-form Phillip Ndlondlo hit back to bring Gallants level, handing both sides a share of the spoils as Sekhukhune moved into third place on the log.

With Kaizer Chiefs and table-toppers Mamelodi Sundowns occupied with continental commitments, and Orlando Pirates only due to face Chippa United on Tuesday, this match-up presented Eric Tinkler’s side with a real chance to gain ground. However, they were unable to take advantage.

Gallants, for their part, have shown resilience this season, although they came into the contest burdened by back-to-back away losses. Returning home for the first time in over a month, they were determined to halt that slide.

The opening half saw both sides exchange blows without fashioning any clear opportunities. Sekhukhune had a nervy moment shortly before the break when a lapse in midfield left their defence exposed. Gallants capitalised on the loose ball, with Ndlondlo slipping a pass to the advancing Monde Mphambaniso, who seemed certain to score.

But Toaster Nsabata reacted brilliantly, rushing off his line and making himself big to deny what looked like a sure goal, keeping the match level heading into halftime.

With few chances created in the first period, both teams needed to raise the tempo in the second half. Tinkler showed intent with a key substitution, bringing on Rammala for Daniel Cardoso, a move that immediately paid off.

Rammala injected much-needed energy, combining well with Vusimuzi Ncube before driving into the box and netting the opener within the first minute of the restart.

Gallants, however, remained dangerous and grew even more threatening after conceding. Ndlondlo continued to pull the strings in midfield, and when Katlego Otladisa picked him out inside the area, he fired home a powerful finish.

The goal was due reward for his influential display and ensured Gallants collected their first point in three games, keeping Babina Noko without a win in five.