​Nwabali heroics earn Chippa a point against Royal AM

Royal AM have all but secured their top-flight status for another season after playing out to a 0-0 draw with Chippa United at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday, 18 May.

The stalemate in Pietermaritzburg ensured that John Maduka's side remained three points clear of Richards Bay in 14th place with a much better goal difference going into the final round.

The Chilli Boys kept their slim top-eight hopes alive after seeing Kaizer Chiefs (8th), Polokwane City (10th) and Golden Arrows (11th) also fail to pick up maximum points on matchday 29.

Thwihli Thwahla came into the clash on the back of a five-match losing streak, while Chippa looked to keep the momentum going after winning three on the spin to close within two points of the top eight.

The hosts were desperate to get back on the winning trail in a bid to avoid having to navigate the promotion/relegation playoffs and they created numerous opportunities after struggling to threaten Mamelodi Sundowns' goal in their previous two DStv Premiership outings.

But Stanley Nwabali was a rock in the opposition goal as he came to Chippa's rescue on several occasions to keep Royal AM at bay.

The Nigeria international kept his 11th clean sheet of the season to earn him the Man of the Match award following another outstanding performance for Thabo September and Kwanele Kopo's side.

Royal AM 0

Chippa United 0

Royal AM: H. Nyame, K. Shezi, A. Jiyane, M. Sikakane, T. Matlaba, S. Msomi (J. Ncobeni 67'), J. Dlamini, M. Masuku (S. Cele 67'), L. Mashiane (S. Sithole 67'), S. George (M. Sera 86'), M. Thikazi (S. Mbhele 86').

Chippa United: S. Nwabali, S. Nhlapo, J. Chabalala, T. Molaoa, A. Ntsabo (R. Pietersen 62'), A. Konqobe (T. Makhele 46'), B. Majogoro, C. Martin (K. Francis 46'), B. Poggenpoel, A. Mqokozo (R. Maarman 46'), B. Eva Nga.