Iqraam Rayners’ solitary goal propelled Mamelodi Sundowns to a slender 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC in a Betway Premiership match played at the Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday night.
Sundowns have strengthened their position at the top of the table, opening up a three-point gap with one game ahead of the second-placed Orlando Pirates who have played eight. With nine games played, Sundowns have amassed a total of 24 points.
Sundowns made a number of changes for this match, with Denis Onyango, Thapelo Morena, Aubrey Modiba, Kobamelo Kodisang, and Rushine De Reuck replacing Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Teboho Mokoena, Sphelele Mkhulise, Neo Maema and Mosa Lebusa.
In the 7th minute, Iqraam Rayners wasted a good chance to haunt his former team when he failed to control the ball in the box. Thabo Moloisane recovered and made a clearance.
Another glorious chance came in the Brazilians way two minutes later, when Marcelo Allende located Malibongwe Khoza in the box. The defender’s header went over the bar.
RAYNERS SCORED AGAINST HIS FORMER SIDE
Rayners continued to pose a threat, and in the 13th minute, his shot was well-saved by Sage Stephens. However, he eventually found the back of the net in the 18th minute, thanks to a brilliant pass from Kodisang.
Following the visitors’ goal, the match intensified as Stellenbosch FC sought to quickly level the score. Bafana Ba Style, on the other hand, remained dangerous whenever they had the ball.
In the 38th minute, Sundowns had a golden opportunity to extend their lead. Ribeiro managed to break through the opposition’s defense, but his delicate chip shot drifted just wide of the goalpost.
Sundowns held a one-goal lead at halftime.
Looking for a comeback, Stellenbosch made one change at the start of the second half bringing on Kyle Jurgens who replaced Enyinnaya Godswill.
As Sundowns looked for more goals, Modiba nearly got one in the 51st minute when he hit the crossbar from outside the box.
As the second half progressed, Stellenbosch FC increased the pressure, determined to find the leveller. Sundowns, who had squandered several chances to stretch their lead, were forced to dig deep defensively to maintain their advantage.
However, the visitors remained solid at the back until the final whistle.
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