Orlando Pirates missed the chance to move to the top of the Betway Premiership after being held to a 0-0 draw by Durban City in their penultimate match of the season at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
The result means the Soweto giants face a tense final fixture next Saturday if they are to win their first league title since the 2011-12 season.
Pirates dominated possession with 76 percent but managed only two shots on target. Durban City had just one shot in the entire match, which missed the target. Pirates also had 10 corners in the first half, the most by any team in a single half this season, but could not convert any into a scoring chance.
In the second half, Durban City goalkeeper Fredrick Asare made a good save from a Relebohile Mofokeng free kick, while Oswin Appollis fired over from a tight angle. Despite continued pressure, Pirates could not find a breakthrough.
The draw leaves Pirates in second place, and they must now beat Orbit College on the final day to keep their title hopes alive. Anything less would hand Mamelodi Sundowns their ninth consecutive league title.
Pirates have now been held to draws in home games against Durban City, Stellenbosch and Richards Bay this season, results that could prove costly if they miss out on the championship.
For Durban City, the point all but secures a top eight finish in their first season after promotion. The club has already won the Nedbank Cup and earned a place in next season’s MTN8 competition.
