Absa Premiership Report: Bloemfontein Celtic v Kaizer Chiefs 20 August 2017

Absa Premiership

Result: Bloemfontein Celtic 1-1 Kaizer Chiefs

Date: 20 August 2017

Venue: Free State Stadium

Kaizer Chiefs had to settle for a point in their Absa Premiership opener, as they played out a 1-1 draw with Bloemfontein Celtic.

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It was an evenly contested affair in the opening exchanges, although neither goalkeeper was called into action in the opening 15 minutes.

Steve Komphela's charges were finding it tough to maintain possession of the ball, which led to a lack of chances in the 18-yard area.

The same was said for the home side, although Kabelo Mahlasela did look threatening down the right flank on occassions.

Chiefs eventually broke the deadlock in the 36th minute Eric Mathoho lost his marker and headed home Keagan Buchanan's corner.

Celtic looked for a way back into the clash in the final 10 minutes of the half, but the Chiefs defence managed to stand firm.

The hosts upped the tempo in the second half as they pushed for an equalising goal, although goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo proved solid between the sticks.   Veselin Jelusic then opted for a change on 66 minutes as Roggert Nyundu made way for Atusaye Nyondo, while Daniel Cardoso replaced Mathoho.   Celtic's attacking intent was rewarded in the 74th minute when they awarded a penalty when Lorenzo Gordinho was adjudged to have handled in the box. Nyondo stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, 1-1.   Komphela responded by introducing William Twala for Hendrick Ekstein with just 15 minutes remaining.   Both sides went in search a winning goal in the closing stages of the second half, but neither side could create a clear-cut chance.   View The PSL Results   Here's how they lined up:

Celtic: 30. Tignyemb, 12. Mahlasela (Masuku 83'), 22. Rikhotso, 27. Ndengane, 10. Mabena, 33. Motshegwa, 5. Letlabika, 35. Baloyi (Mashikinya 73'), 7. Hotto, 8. Phalane, 45. Nyundu. (Nyondo 67').

Chiefs: 16. Khuzwayo, 2. Mphahlele, 26. Gordinho, 3. Mathoho (Cardoso 69'), 24. Masilela, 10. Buchanan, 31. Katsande, 27. Ekstein (Twala 77'), 14. Tshabalala (Chirambadare 83'), 25. Parker, 9. Páez.