Riyaad Norodien had given Stars an early lead with a superb free-kick, but the visitors proved the architects of their own downfall. A howler from goalkeeper Dino Visser gifted Maritzburg an equaliser, before Fileccia converted a penalty deep into injury-time.

Maritzburg are now five points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns but have played a game more, while Stars remain rooted to the foot of the table, four points behind Ajax Cape Town in the relegation play-off position.

Stars led through a piece of magic from on-loan winger Norodien, who smashed home a free-kick from 35-yards that nestled into top corner.

Maritzburg offered little going forward in the first half, but were much brighter after the break following the introduction of striker Mogau Mokate as they went to three defenders at the back.

Stars defender Gift Sithole was forced to clear off the line from Mokate five minutes after the break, while Dikwena goalkeeper Dino Visser then made a fine stop from the same player.

Visser had a moment of good fortune when Pogiso Sanoka's tame shot spilled through his hands and deflected onto the post, with the gloveman able to gather at the second attempt.

But his luck ran out a minute from the end when his attempted punch fell kindly for Fileccia to bury the loose ball.

There was still time for more later drama though when Maritzburg were awarded a penalty by referee Victor Gomes after he adjudged Charles Baloyi had fouled Mohau Mokate and Fileccia took his tally to six goals in eight games in all competitions with a confident finish.