Maduka Extends Unbeaten Start as Magesi Hold Stellenbosch to a Draw

John Maduka continued his unbeaten start as Magesi head coach after guiding his team to a 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch at Seshego Stadium on Wednesday.

The Limpopo-based side went into the match on the back of a goalless draw with Polokwane City in their Betway Premiership opener. They collected a second successive point to climb to 10th place on the log.

Stellenbosch, still seeking consistency, picked up their first point of the season after a 2-0 loss to Kaizer Chiefs in their opening game. The result saw them rise to 13th position, just above TS Galaxy, Richards Bay and Orlando Pirates.

Magesi dominated the opening stages and tested Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens early, with the shot-stopper making a key save in the 10th minute. However, it was the visitors who took the lead in the 19th minute when Andre de Jong found Langelihle Phili on the left. Phili powered a shot into the far corner from a tight angle to make it 1-0.

The hosts responded quickly. Eight minutes later, Mcedi Vandala delivered a pinpoint cross for Kgomotso Mosadi, who headed home the equaliser to restore parity. Stephens was called into action twice more before halftime to prevent Magesi from taking the lead.

Maduka’s side started the second half aggressively, taking several long-range efforts. Stephens again denied them before the hour mark with another sharp save.

Stellenbosch threatened in the 71st minute when substitute Muzomuhle Khanyi forced a good save from Elvis Chipezeze, but clear chances for the visitors remained rare.

Magesi pushed for a late winner, but their finishing let them down in the final third, and both teams settled for a point.

Scorers
Magesi: Mosadi 27′
Stellenbosch: Phili 19′

Magesi XI: E. Chipezeze, D. Abrahams, T. Makgoga, M. Buthelezi, J. Mokone, L. Mtshali, W. Makhubu (T. Kakora 85′), T. Masegela (S. Darpoh 85′), M. Vandala, K. Mosadi, K. Mariba (T. Sibanyoni 63′).

Stellenbosch XI: S. Stephens, S. Barns, H. Stanic, T. Moloisane, O. Mdaka, D. Titus (L. Mojela 83′), C. Butsaka (I. Jabaar 74′), T. Khiba, L. Phili (K. Lekoloane 74′), L. Nku (M. Khanyi 59′), A. de Jong.