The current log-leaders in the Safa Vhembe SAB league, Makhitha Oscar Stars, and Joe Express played to dull, goalless draw at the Makhitha grounds on Saturday.

Stars had an opportunity for a goal in the opening minutes, but Phumudzo Tseisi shot into the hands of the opponents´ keeper, Mpho Makavhe. The local boys´ misfortunes continued in the 16th minute, when Joel Goba shot over the bar, with only the keeper to beat.

Philemon Maalazwanda of the host team was yellow-carded for rough tackling a few minutes later.

The visiting side´s woes continued in the 29th minute, when Lutendo Matshavha´s well-timed shot missed the poles by a mere inch.

The second half was war from the onset to the bitter end. Joe started the half at a very fast pace, giving their opponents no moment to breathe. The local lads should have scored in the 60th minute, but striker Godwin Mahuwa hesitated for too long and a defender of the opposition sent the ball out. Stars´ striker, Maringa Netshiendeulu, did not live up to expectations, as he was tightly marked.

The local team showed a spirit of commitment, with their midfielders distributing telling passes to the front-runners. Their right flank, Dakalo Ratshitanga, was unfortunate in the 79th minute, when he shot wide from close range.

Joe´s had their chances as well. Their demon-striker, Ndivhuwo Muleya, sent a beautiful pass to Tshifhiwa Singo, who tried his luck from outside the box. The ball hit the woodwork and bounced back into the field of play.

Philimon Maalazwanda was red-carded for a second bookable offence. Express should have scored in the dying minutes, but Dakalo Ratshitanga´s shot hit the crossbar and bounced back into the field of play.