Mamelodi Sundowns moved back to the top of the Betway Premiership after securing an eighth successive league win with a 3-1 victory over Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld on Tuesday.
The result takes Sundowns to 51 points, placing them two points clear of second-placed Orlando Pirates, while Gallants remain near the bottom of the table in 14th position with 18 points.
Despite the eventual scoreline, the match began cautiously, with both sides creating limited opportunities in the opening 20 minutes. Each team threatened from set-pieces, but neither was able to establish early control.
Sundowns eventually took the lead in somewhat fortunate circumstances. A free-kick delivered by Marcelo Allende resulted in an own goal, with Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya heading the ball into his own net under pressure.
The goal reflected Sundowns’ growing influence on the game, despite the absence of several key players. Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba and Jayden Adams were unavailable due to suspension, while Thapelo Morena missed out through injury.
Their absence led to changes in the starting line-up, with players including Zuko Mduneyelwa, Keagan Johannes, Keanu Cupido and Miguel Reisinho brought into the side. Brayan Leon was also introduced, replacing Iqraam Rayners following the team’s previous win against ORBIT College.
Gallants, however, responded positively and found a way back into the match before half-time. Five minutes before the interval, Nuno Santos conceded a penalty after handling the ball inside the area. Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo converted from the spot to level the score, registering his sixth goal of the season.
The second half saw Sundowns make an important tactical adjustment, with Reisinho among those substituted at the break and Teboho Mokoena introduced into the midfield.
The change proved decisive. Just after the hour mark, Mokoena restored Sundowns’ lead, finishing off a move he had initiated with a close-range effort.
The closing stages of the match were played at a high tempo, with both sides pushing forward in search of goals. Multiple substitutions from both teams contributed to an open and end-to-end contest.
Sundowns eventually secured the result when Mokoena scored his second goal of the match, sealing a 3-1 victory and ensuring his side maintained their winning momentum.
The win extends Sundowns’ impressive run in the league and reinforces their position as strong title contenders as the season progresses.
For Gallants, the defeat leaves them in a precarious position. They remain just outside the relegation play-off zone on goal difference, level with ORBIT and only two points above bottom-placed Magesi.
As the campaign continues, Sundowns will look to build on their momentum at the top of the table, while Gallants face increasing pressure to secure results in their fight to avoid relegation.
