Chippa United's search for a first Betway Premiership win of the season continues after they were held to a goalless draw by newly promoted Milford FC at Buffalo City Stadium in KuGompo City on Saturday afternoon.
The result extended the Chilli Boys' winless run to five matches (four draws and one defeat) and left coach Brandon Truter's side on just four points, sitting 12th on the log. Milford, by contrast, claimed a valuable point on the road to move into fifth place with eight points from six games (two wins, two draws and two losses).
Return to home soil
This was Chippa's long-awaited return to home soil. Stadium maintenance had forced the Eastern Cape club to play their earlier “home” fixtures on neutral grounds, including matches against Orlando Pirates and Richards Bay. Truter had spoken of the homecoming as a potential turning point, hoping the support of local fans would help his side finally convert draws into three points.
First-half action
Chippa started brightly and created the first clear chance when Azola Tshobeni cut inside from the left and forced a sharp save from Milford debutant goalkeeper Lungile Nkosi. The visitors, who had impressed in a 2-0 midweek defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns despite the result, gradually settled and threatened on the counter. Thabani Mabena raced clear but shot wide.
Second-half struggle
After the break Chippa pushed harder. Justice Figuareido was denied after latching onto a through ball, and a header from Ndlabi struck the woodwork. Milford remained compact and organised in their defensive shape, absorbing pressure and looking to hit on the break. Late in the game the visitors also hit the post as both sides failed to find a decisive moment.
Coaches and what comes next
Milford coach Xanti Pupuma had called for a response after the controversial loss to Sundowns and saw his side deliver a disciplined, hard-working performance that secured a clean sheet against a desperate home team. For Truter, the pressure continues to mount. Chippa next face a daunting home clash with Mamelodi Sundowns, followed by an away trip to TS Galaxy and a home game against Kruger United.
Milford will look to build on the point when they host Richards Bay, with further home fixtures against Durban City to come.
Final word
A point each reflected a cagey, low-scoring contest in which neither side could unlock the other. For Chippa, the wait for the elusive first victory goes on. For the promoted Stallions, another solid result underlines their promising start to life in the top flight.