Bradley Grobler's late goal rescued a point for Stellenbosch FC in a 1-1 draw with Sekhukhune United on Friday. The veteran striker struck three minutes from time to cancel out Bethuel Muzeu's second-half opener for the visitors.
The result means Stellenbosch remain in 11th place in the Premier Soccer League, having taken five points from their opening five matches. Their recent form shows one win, three draws and one defeat from the last five outings.
Stellenbosch started with intent, dominating possession and creating the better chances in the first half. They were unable to convert their pressure into a goal, however, and the half ended goalless despite two yellow cards for Sekhukhune players.
The game's pattern shifted after the break. Sekhukhune United took the lead in the 63rd minute when Bethuel Muzeu finished from close range after a pass from Lehlohonolo Mojela. Stellenbosch manager Steve Barker responded immediately, sending on Quwan Plaatjies for Raoul Daniels.
As the clock ticked down, Stellenbosch pushed more players forward in search of an equaliser. The pressure finally told in the 87th minute. Siviwe Nkwali delivered a cross from the right and Bradley Grobler was in the perfect position to head home, sending the home fans into celebration.
The closing stages were frantic, with Stellenbosch's Lehlohonolo Matlou picking up a yellow card in added time. The hosts finished the match with 54% possession and 14 shots, but were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.
Steve Barker acknowledged his team's fighting spirit but pointed to areas for improvement. "We showed good character to come back, but we need to be more clinical from the start," the Stellenbosch boss said. "Creating chances is one thing, putting them away is another."
The draw extends Stellenbosch's unbeaten run at home to two matches. They now sit 14 points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
With a busy schedule ahead, Barker will be looking to build on this resilient performance. The team's next fixture is a key league encounter, and fans can check the upcoming fixtures for all the details. The point keeps Stellenbosch moving in the right direction as they aim to climb the table.
