Tshiozwi Mates and Gogobole Home Defenders played to a 2-all draw in a Limpopo Dairy League match played at Tshiozwi on Saturday.

Defenders were lucky not to concede an avalanche of goals during the first half. Mates displayed entertaining football, with Defenders running for cover. Mates threatened to score in the 16th minute. Mates’ striker, Sinthumule Gudani, caught the Defenders' keeper, Mulalo Maphaha, napping and beat him with a long-range ground cutter.

Defenders gained momentum towards the end of the first half. Dakao Mabege dribbled past three defenders in a row but shot wide from close range.

It took Mates nearly an hour to open their account. Rivhangani Ralufhe forced his way through the defence of Defenders and dished a square pass to Mbavhalelo Thathaisa, who was in a perfect scoring position. Ralufhe headed home after the keeper of Defenders mishandled the ball.

Doctor Masingi of Mates was reprimanded with a card for a late tackle on Ralph Gededzha in the 65th minute. Defenders were awarded a free kick in the 35-meter area seven minutes later. Mulao Lethole scored from the set piece with a volley.

Mates fought the last 20 minutes with their hands tied behind their backs. Their midfielder, Emmanuel Makongongoza, was given his marching orders after pulling his opponent’s shirt. Andries Masingi scored the second goal for Mates six minutes before the final whistle.

Masingi beat the keeper with a half volley, but their celebration was cut short when Defenders equalised when Tondani Phadziri blasted in a rocket after a rebound.