Kaizer Chiefs were forced to share the spoils with defending champions Bidvest Wits after playing out to a 1-1 draw at the Bidvest Stadium on Saturday, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

The clash got off to a slow start with both sides trying to find their rhythm in the opening exchanges of the encounter.

Darren Keet was called into action as early as the 12th minute when he produced a fine save to deny Gustavo Paez after he was played through on goal by Philani Zulu.

Lehlohonolo Majoro should’ve put the Clever Boys ahead in the 22nd minute as he beat his marker before unleashing a strike at goal, but the striker was unable to direct his attempt towards the target.

The visitors eventually took the lead five minutes before the half-time interval when Ryan Moon latched on to Siphiwe Tshabalala’s cross before powering his header past the Wits shot-stopper to make it 1-0.

Wits came out with more intent in the second half and levelled matters when Majoro rose highest to steer his header past Itumeleng Khune to make it 1-1.

The Glamour Boys were dealt a blow after 60 minutes as Steve Komphela was forced into making a substitution for the injured Zulu and was subsequently replaced by Leonardo Castro.

At the other end, Wits coach Gavin Hunt introduced Gabadinho Mhango in to replace Majoro in attack.

James Keene nearly handed his side the lead after he was played through on goal with 17 minutes left to play, but the striker was flagged for offside by the linesman.

Amakhosi should’ve put the game to bed five minutes from time, but Siphelele Ntshangase failed to beat Keet in a one-on-one situation to keep the scoreline level at 1-1.

Khune came to Chiefs’ rescue in stoppage-time when he produced a fine save to deny Daylon Claasen, as both sides shared the spoils at the Bidvest Stadium.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix