Kaizer Chiefs will feel they deserved more than the one point they gained following a goalless draw against Royal AM in their first DStv Premiership fixture of 2024 at the Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday.

Notwithstanding the absence of goals, the thousands of loyal Amakhosi Faithful who braved the grey and damp conditions in the provincial capital of KwaZulu-Natal were treated to an entertaining game between competitive two teams.

Amakhosi came under pressure from the opening whistle as the hosts were quick out of the blocks. However, the Chiefs rearguard held firm in defending their goal, making crucial interceptions and blocks in and around their penalty area., and repelling a series of four corners in quick succession.

Only one was Bruce Bvuma called upon to make a save, which he did in somewhat unconventional fashion with his body to deflect opposition defender, Thabo Matlaba’s swerving 17th minute shot out for a corner.

In the 38th minute Njabulo Ngcobo pulled off a magnificent block tackle on Menzi Masuku, just as the striker was lining up a shot in front of goal. Despite being largely on the defensive, Amakhosi grew into the game as time progressed and ultimately produced the two best scoring opportunities of the first half.

In the 24th minute, Ashley Du Preez stole in behind Royal AM’s high defensive line and was clean through on goal. With only goalkeeper, Hugo Nyame, to beat, the fleet-footed striker tried to scoop the ball over the advancing keeper but unfortunately the ball went narrowly wide of the goal.

In the end, Amakhosi had to settle for a point, which does extend their unbeaten run in the league to four matches and gives them something to build on going forward. Chiefs sit in sixth place on the premiership log, with 25 points from 17 matches. Next up is a Soweto Derby against Moroka Swallows on Saturday, March 2, at FNB stadium.