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Kaizer Chiefs failed to open their 2015/16 Absa Premiership account with a win as they played to a goalless draw against Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium yesterday afternoon. Amakhosi will have to fight for a win in their upcoming match against Free State Stars with the one point collected from this match taking them to position six on the log behind the Chilli Boys.

The hosts tried to beat Itumeleng Khune as Mark Mayambela’s acrobatic kick went out of play after a corner as early as the seventh minute.

In retaliation, the defending champions managed to get in the Chilli Boys’ final third but ex-Chippa man David Zulu saw his effort blocked before unleashing a shot.

In the 22nd minute, Joseph Molangoane broke the deadlock as he beat Khune, however, his strike was ruled offside.

The half ended 0-0

The second stanza began with both sides having failed to break the deadlock and none of the teams managed to produce any clear cut chances.

Steve Komphela’s men looked threatening with Zulu aiming at hurting his ex-employers.

Tshabalala came close in the 54th minute when he struck the crossbar with a fierce 20-yard shot.

With time running against both sides, Parker delivered a great cross but Shaba’s header went wide off Hawes’ posts signalling a dull stalemate.

In the last five minutes, the hosts had a chance to find their first goal of the season, but Khune was in uncompromising form to come off his line and make a save.

Parker tried to get something out of the match as he packed a shot, however, he failed to hit the target and saw the ball straight into the side netting. — Supersport

Teams
Chippa United: Hawes, Chipeta, Okwuosa, Thopola, Cloete (Inathi 63’), Uzochukwu (Matombo 58’), Molangoane, Sali, Mayambela, Manzini (Macheke 84’), Twala

Chiefs: Khune, Gaxa, Xulu, Mathoho, Masilela, Katsande, Letsholonyane (Maluleka 89’), Tshabalala, Lebese, Parker, Zulu (Ekstein 60’)