Delmas —The Brazilians (PJ Stars) and Abafana Bomlando (Delpark United) were forced to settle for a share of points after playing to a goalless draw in a tightly contested Hollywoodbets League derby at the Mafa Max Motloung Sports Ground.
The goalless draw saw PJ Stars and Delpark United share the spoils, with both teams remaining firmly in contention as the Hollywoodbets League season continues.
The encounter, played on 18 January 2025, was marked by intensity, tactical discipline and strong defensive organisation, as neither side managed to find the decisive breakthrough in an evenly balanced contest.
PJ Stars head coach Blessing Ngavi said the stalemate was a fair reflection of how closely matched the two teams are.
“I think both teams know each other very well and there was no team that wanted to lose to the other. It was 50/50. Both sides know what it means to play this derby and they showed sportsmanship,” Ngavi told the paper.
Despite enjoying home-ground advantage, PJ Stars struggled to break down a resolute Delpark United defence. Ngavi acknowledged that finishing has been an area of concern for his side this season.
“PJ Stars have been failing to win with big scores and we have been conceding too many goals. That’s why we signed new players to strengthen our squad. They will bring goals and also help strengthen our backline,” he said.
PJ Stars currently occupy fifth place on the log, level on points with several teams above them but trailing on goal difference. Ngavi added that both clubs are still adjusting to the demands of the Hollywoodbets League, with a strong focus on youth development.
“We are using mostly players from our development structures and our aim is to challenge the league, not just participate.”
Delpark United coach Paul Phiri praised the discipline and tactical awareness displayed by both teams, which he felt played a decisive role in the goalless outcome.
“Both teams gave their best in terms of attacking and defending. Discipline and sticking to the game plan played a huge part,” Phiri said, adding that while chances were created at both ends, goalkeepers and missed opportunities ensured the scoreline remained unchanged. “We created a number of goal-scoring chances and maybe needed a bit of luck. The goalkeepers also played a big role in denying both teams.”
He also highlighted the challenging weather conditions as a factor affecting the tempo of the match.
“It’s never easy to play under such heat, but the game had to continue.”
Although Delpark United were aiming for maximum points to improve their league standing, Phiri accepted the draw as a fair result in a demanding derby encounter.
“We wanted all three points, but a draw is not a bad result. We’ll take the point and focus on the next game. We are in this league to challenge for the championship.”
