Stellenbosch FC continued their unbeaten streak in the Betway Premiership under coach Gavin Hunt after battling to a 1-1 draw against Magesi FC at the Danie Craven Stadium on Wednesday.
The home side took the lead five minutes before the interval when Langelihle Phili applied a composed finish to put the Maroons ahead.
However, their advantage was short-lived as Samuel Darpoh responded swiftly for the visitors, levelling matters before halftime with his first goal of the campaign.
Stellenbosch, who recently shifted focus back to league duties following their exit from the CAF Confederation Cup, were aiming to build on their 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United in Hunt’s opening match in charge on January 20.
Despite their efforts, they were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.
Magesi, struggling at the bottom of the table and without a win in their previous six matches, started brightly.
They nearly found an early breakthrough inside six minutes, but goalkeeper Sage Stephens produced a fine diving save to deny a long-range attempt.
The visitors registered more attempts on goal in the opening half, testing the Stellenbosch defence on several occasions.
After Phili broke the deadlock in the 35th minute, Allan Freese’s men responded within seven minutes through Darpoh to restore parity before the break.
The second half saw Stellenbosch push forward in search of a winner. Phili again came close with a powerful strike that forced Elvis Chipezeze into action, while Thabo Moloisane rattled the crossbar moments later.
The contest tilted further when Wonderboy Makhubu was sent off in the 73rd minute for a dangerous high challenge, reducing the hosts to ten men.
Despite the numerical advantage, Magesi were unable to capitalise in the closing stages.
The result leaves Stellenbosch in 13th position on the table, now one point ahead of Marumo Gallants, who have played two matches more, while Magesi remain rooted to the bottom as their search for a crucial victory continues.