The fight for promotion and relegation in the PSL remains wide open after Richards Bay failed to secure their DStv Premiership status on Saturday.

They took the lead in the first half at Tuks Stadium in the penultimate game of the playoffs, but University of Pretoria clawed their way back for a 1-1 draw in the second half.

Yanela Mbuthuma capitalized on a corner in the 40th minute, heading the ball into an unguarded net. This put the visitors ahead, but their joy was short-lived.

Just three minutes after the break, Kamogelo Pheeane equalized for AmaTuks with a header, marking the first goal conceded by Richards Bay in the playoffs.

Knowing a win was crucial, AmaTuks bombarded the Richards Bay box with long balls early on in the fiirst half. Thabang Sibanyoni, their target man, had already threatened with a long-range shot saved by Salim Magoola.

The momentum shifted in the 61st minute when Teboho Mohlamonyane nearly put AmaTuks ahead. He struck the post from close range when presented with a golden opportunity. Soon after, he delivered a pinpoint cross for Sibanyoni, but the forward mistimed his jump, letting the chance slip away.

AmaTuks dominated possession for a period, forcing Richards Bay to defend resolutely. Mbuthuma almost restored the lead for the visitors, but Edward Maovi, the AmaTuks goalkeeper, was equal to the task, making two crucial saves in quick succession.

Both teams shared the spoils, leaving the promotion picture unsettled. The final match on Wednesday will be decisive. University of Pretoria will need Baroka to defeat Richards Bay convincingly to have a chance, as they currently sit last in the mini-league table with only two points. Richards Bay, on the other hand, only needs a draw in Durban to secure promotion.