Durban City FC were held to a goalless draw by Golden Arrows in a rain-affected KZN derby at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday night. The match had started about 15 minutes late after the waterlogged pitch was given a late inspection, and the heavy conditions made flowing football difficult for both sides.
The visitors' goalkeeper, Edward Maova, produced a crucial second-half display to help his team hold City to a goalless draw. He made several important saves, including a fine stop from a long-range free-kick after 60 minutes.
City, still searching for their first league win of the season, had the better of the early exchanges but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Samkelo Maseko and Gaston Sirino both had efforts at goal, while Arrows came closest when a header from a corner struck the crossbar before City goalkeeper Fredrick Asare gathered.
With 20 minutes remaining, Arrows coach Pitso Dladla made changes in an attempt to gain a foothold in the contest. Arrows offered a late threat of their own when Sabelo Sithole almost broke through in the 80th minute, but Siyabonga Msomi pulled him back and was shown a yellow card.
League standing: 13th in Premier Soccer League, 0 pts, 0W-0D-1L from 1 games, recent form DL. Goals this season: 0 scored, 1 conceded (-1 goal difference). Title race: 3 points behind leaders Kaizer Chiefs.
The match was a crucial test for City, who remain without a win after their opening two league matches. Another KZN derby against Richards Bay looms, and City will be looking to bounce back from this draw.
