Massive wins for Baroka and Maritzburg United

Rock-bottom Baroka and fellow strugglers Maritzburg United picked up important wins in the DStv Premiership on Wednesday, while Cape Town City missed out on the chance to go second.

Cape Town City blew their chance to overtake Royal AM in the standings after being held to a goalless draw by Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in the afternoon kick-off.

The point saw the Citizens go level with second-placed Thwihli Thwahla on 45 with three matches left to play, while the Chilli Boys dropped to 13th, four clear of the bottom two.

Elsewhere, Baroka gave themselves a glimmer of hope after they beat Golden Arrows 1-0 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Bonginkosi Makume's 33rd-minute penalty proved the difference in Polokwane as Bakgaga closed within five points of safety at the foot of the table with another nine left to play for.

Meanwhile, Maritzburg United claimed the derby spoils as they edged KZN rivals Royal AM 1-0 at the Harry Gwala Stadium.

Friday Samu headed home a corner in the 22nd minute to register his second goal in two matches to give the Team of Choice three crucial points in their fight for survival, which lifted them up to 12th, four clear of Swallows in 15th position.

John Maduka's team have now dropped seven points from their last three outings to open the door for City and Kaizer Chiefs in the race for CAF Champions League football.

Wednesday's DStv Premiership results:

Chippa United 0-0 Cape Town City

Baroka 1-0 Golden Arrows

Maritzburg United 1-0 Royal AM