Durban City hold Pirates as title race goes to final day

Durban City delayed Orlando Pirates’ Betway Premiership title celebrations after battling to a goalless draw against the Buccaneers at Orlando Amstel Arena.

Thousands of supporters packed the stadium expecting Pirates to secure the league crown with a victory, but the afternoon ended without the expected celebrations.

Pirates controlled most of the possession and pushed forward throughout the match, however they struggled to find a way past a well-organised Durban City defence.

The visitors arrived in Soweto determined to frustrate the hosts and successfully carried out their game plan.

Durban City offered little going forward and rarely troubled goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, but their disciplined defending was enough to earn an important point away from home.

The result means Pirates still have a chance of winning the Betway Premiership title.

The Buccaneers must now beat Orbit College FC in their final league fixture at Mbombela Stadium next weekend to keep their championship hopes alive.

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns remain top of the standings, holding a two-point advantage over Pirates ahead of the final round of matches.

After the match, Durban City’s coach applauded his players for their disciplined defensive performance against one of the league’s strongest attacking sides.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou expressed disappointment at missing the chance to celebrate the title with supporters at home.

Ouaddou said the team had wanted to give their fans a victory on the day, but they will now focus on finishing the job in their final match of the season next week.