Rudolph Bester cancelled out Knowledge Musona's opener to ensure Maritzburg United snatched a point off Kaizer Chiefs at Harry Gwala Stadium on Wednesday night.
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Chiefs, playing their usual brand of attacking football, held the upper-hand for much of the first half and they received their reward when Musona steered Jimmy Tau's assist beyond United goalkeeper Shu-Aib Walters.
The Soweto giants continued to pour forward and had two other goal-bound efforts cleared off the line.
First Siphiwe Tshabalala hit a thunderous drive from the edge of the penalty area, but the keeper got his hands to it before defender David Booysens prevented what would have been a certain goal in the 30th minute.
And 10 minutes later, Walters parried Mandla Masango's firm effort into the path of Mthokozisi Yende , who in turn sent a header on target.
John Aruwah, however, was on hand to thwart Chiefs from forging further ahead.
After being under pressure for most of the half, United could have drawn level just before the interval, but creative midfielder Kurt Lentjies hit a powerful drive from 25 metres against the crossbar.
The visitors failed to display the same zest in attack in the second half and thus allowed United to grow in confidence as the match progressed.
Chiefs keeper Itumeleng Khune was at full stretch to keep out Mor Diouf's stinging long-range free kick in the 70th minute, but three minutes later he was a beaten man when Bester diverted a weighted punt from Lentjies beyond his reach.
Khune was on his toes yet again in the 84th minute, this time required to make saves in quick succession from Musa Nyatama, who broke clear from his markers and Diyo Sibisi who was following up.
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