Mamelodi Sundowns remain unconvincing in surprise draw

Mamelodi Sundowns struggled to impose themselves on Wednesday as their unconvincing league form continued with a 1-1 draw at Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership.

Iqraam Rayners opened the scoring close to the half hour mark but Keanu Cupido’s own goal restored parity before halftime in a pleasing result for Gallants supporters. Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso attempted to change the tide of the match with second half substitutions but reigning champions Masandawana failed to dominate their less pedigreed opponents.

The visitors and favorites dominated possession in the first half and it appeared that they were on their way when Marcelo Allende provided an excellent cross for Rayners, whose header snuck under Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi.

However, recently acquired Gallants playmaker Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo was played in behind the Sundowns defense in the 35th minute and his shot took deflections off keeper Ronwen Williams and then Cupido before rolling into the goal.

Busy stretch for Mamelodi Sundowns

With the result, Sundowns remain a point back of league leaders Sekhukhune United who defeated Kaizer Chiefs on Tuesday. Sundowns next host Durban City on Saturday in the second of five games over a thirteen-day stretch.

Elsewhere, AmaZulu defeated Stellenbosch FC by a 2-1 score in Durban while Polokwane City won by the same score at home against Golden Arrows. Richards Bay and TS Galaxy played to a 1-1 draw in the other match from Wednesday.

Action continues from the league on Saturday with Sekhukhune and Sundowns among the teams in action. Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs will begin their continental journeys in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup respectively over the weekend.

Results

Wednesday

Marumo Gallants 1-1 Mamelodi Sundowns

AmaZulu 2-1 Stellenbosch

Polokwane City 2-1 Golden Arrows

Richards Bay 1-1 TS Galaxy

Tuesday

Kaizer Chiefs 1-3 Sekhukhune United

Chippa United 2-1 Orbit College

Durban City 2-0 Siwelele FC