Kaizer Chiefs’ players mobbed an inspired Emile Baron after the hair-raising 2-1 Premier League win over Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium on Saturday night.
The goalkeeper make two point-blank saves in the final 60 seconds that ensured three points for the defending PSL champions. The former Bafana goalkeeper was called into action as early as the opening minute when a thunderous, 35m snap shot from Alton Meiring was heroically diverted past the post.
But even this breathtaking save paled in comparison to the effort that was deflected onto the crossbar and prevented a 40m thunderbolt from Papi Zothwane hurtling into the roof of the net.
The hapless Meiring also hit the woodwork twice, but it was the wayward Arrows’ striker who squandered as many chances as Baron saved and ensured his team returning to Durban without a share of the spoils.
Little wonder Arrows coach Khabo Zondo punched the plastic covering surrounding the substitute’s bench in frustration as chance after chance was missed by a team who impressed with their subtle passing and cohesive skills, but seemed to freeze in the vicinity of the Chiefs’ penalty area.
It was against the run of play that Songwe Chalwe opened the score for Chiefs in the 35th minute with a header at the far post after Arthur Zwane’s tantalising cross had outfoxed Arrows goalkeeper Davies Phiri and his defence.
It seemed Arrows were destined to remain scoreless after substitute Kaizer Motaung Junior increased Chiefs’ lead in the 76th minute, but a glorious overhead kick from Mabuthi Khanyeza in the 80th minute made the score 2-1 and set the scene for a grandstand finish.
Ultimately Chiefs can thank Baron for maintaining their looming challenge in defence of their League title, with the goalkeeper surely forcing his attention on Bafana coach Ted Dumitru for selection for the African Nations Cup. – Sapa