Mamelodi Sundowns extended their lead at the top of the Absa Premiership to five points following an entertaining 1-1 draw with Free State Stars at Loftus Stadium on Wednesday.
Percy Tau swept Sundowns ahead early on, but they spurned a number of chances to double that advantage before former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates forward Siphelele Mthembu equalised in the second period.
The draw takes Sundowns to 39 points from 21 games, five ahead of Chiefs in second place, and one ahead of Pirates and Free State Stars, who have been the surprise-package of the season under Belgian coach Luc Eymael.
Sundowns led inside five minutes as Uruguayan forward Gustavo Sirino squared the ball for Tau to fire home.
Jeremy Brockie has endured a frustrating time in front of goal since joining Sundowns last month in a high-profile move from SuperSport United and he wasted a good chance just before the half-hour mark as he placed the ball wide.
Stars came into the game more in the second period and after Mthembu had wasted two earlier opportunities, he finally found the back of the net after good work from the impressive Harris Tchilimbou.
Sundowns had won their previous 10 games against Stars, but were fortunate to come away with anything from this one after goalkeeper Dennis Onyango appeared to bring down the visitors' Nhlanhla Vilakazi late on.
However, referee Thando Ndzandzeka waved away what looked legitimate appeals for a penalty.
Sundowns are next in action on Saturday when they host SuperSport in a Tshwane Derby, while Stars host AmaZulu on the same evening.
