Mamelodi Sundowns overcome early blip, return to winning ways

Mamelodi Sundowns moved back into the win column on Saturday with a 3-1 victory over Durban City in Betway Premiership action.

The reigning champions gave their supporters more concern after conceding the opening goal to Durban City and Namibia national team forward Joslin Kamatuka in the 13th minute. However, a swift response left Masandawana up by halftime and Iqraam Rayners finished off the victory in the second goal to make it four goals in his last three matches.

Mamelodi Sundowns overcome sloppy first half

Once again, possession dominance did not necessarily translate to the scoreboard for Sundowns and a set piece defending meltdown allowed Kamatuka a free header from a corner kick. The slip up seemed to inspire the heavy favorites at the Lucas Moripe Stadium and a little bit of luck allowed Sundowns to equalize through Marcelo Allende’s deflected effort less than ten minutes later.

Before putting the match away in the second half, Rayners was a provider and his pass sent Tashreeq Matthews through to finish and put Sundowns up in the 35th minute. Sundowns were not out of the woods yet when a penalty kick was awarded close to halftime. However, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a trademark spot kick denial from Kamatuka to keep Sundowns ahead at halftime before Rayners put the match beyond doubt.

Elsewhere, Stellenbosch FC’s struggles continued in the league with a 0-1 home defeat to Richards Bay. Siyabonga Nzama’s goal close to halftime handed Stellies their third consecutive Betway Premiership defeat.

Orbit College and Marumo Gallants played to a 1-1 draw among the late slate of games. Earlier on Saturday, Sekhukhune United found a late goal to edge Golden Arrows and maintain their lead at the top of the table, which now stands at one point following Sundowns’ victory.

There will be only one match on Sunday with Polokwane City hosting Chipppa United.

Saturday Results

Magesi FC 2-0 Siwelele FC

Sekhukhune United 1-0 Golden Arrows

Stellenbosch 0-1 Richards Bay

Mamelodi Sundowns 3-1 Durban City

Orbit College 1-1 Marumo Gallants