Pirates held by Durban City as Betway Premiership title race goes to final day

The Buccaneers now head into the final game of the season knowing victory over Orbit College next week will secure the league crown, while anything less could hand the title back to rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.

Pirates dominated possession for long spells and created the better opportunities throughout the contest, but a combination of resilient defending from Durban City and inspired goalkeeping from Fredrick Asare frustrated the home side.

The hosts started brightly and threatened early through a long-range effort that forced the Durban goalkeeper into a save for a corner inside the opening minutes.

As the first half progressed, Pirates steadily increased the pressure. A dangerous low ball into the area was brilliantly blocked in the box before another deflected effort forced Asare into an excellent low save shortly before half-time.

Despite the sustained pressure, the teams went into the break level at 0-0.

Pirates resumed the second half with renewed urgency and almost found the breakthrough through Oswin Appollis, who endured a frustrating afternoon in front of goal despite repeatedly finding promising positions.

The winger first stretched desperately to meet a chipped delivery before later glancing a header narrowly wide of the far post after a dangerous cross into the box.

Durban City continued to threaten and nearly stunned the home crowd with a lively attacking sequence midway through the second half that saw three efforts blocked inside the Pirates area.

With tension growing around the stadium, Pirates threw numbers forward in search of the decisive goal.

Appollis came closest in the 74th minute when he unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, only for Asare to produce another outstanding save low to his left.

Pirates continued to pile on the pressure in the closing stages, with another curling effort flashing inches wide before Asare again denied the hosts late on with a strong double-handed save.

Durban City's defence, however, stood firm under relentless pressure as Pirates were denied the victory they needed to clinch glory.

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