A goal from Khama Billiat put Kaizer Chiefs one step closer to securing the Absa Premiership title with a 1-0 victory over Chippa United at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

Itumeleng Khune returned to the starting lineup in place of the injured Daniel Akpeyi, while Lebogang Manyama and Willard Katsande also returned to the squad.

Amakhosi found their rhythm early in the opening exchanges of the game and should have taken the lead in the third minute, but Khama Billiat saw his shot saved by Chippa goalkeeper Veli Mothwa.

Billiat did eventually find the net nine minutes later when Samir Nurković flicked the ball into the Zimbabwean’s path before he poked it home from close range.

The Chilli Boys had their first real chance at goal when Riuzaigh Gamildien’s snap-shot from point-blank range forced Khune into making a low save to deny the attacker.

Gamildien had another chance to level matters eight minutes before the break but saw his curling free kick saved by Khune.

The Glamour Boys held on to their one-goal lead over Chippa as the match went into the half-time break.

Chippa got the second half off to a bad start as they were reduced to 10 men after Tercious Malepe was shown a straight red card after be brought down Billiat.

The visitors thought they had levelled matters in the 78th minute after finding the back of the net but the goal was disallowed as Khune was fouled in the buildup to the goal.

Things went from bad to worse for Chippa in the 87th minute when substitute Elvis Moyo was shown his marching orders following a dangerous challenge on Ramahlwe Mphahlele.

Chippa had a chance to equalise in stoppage time, but Mphahlele made a crucial block to deny the visitors a scoring opportunity.

Chiefs managed to hold on to their lead over Chippa until the final whistle, walking away with all three points to remain top of the league table.