Mamelodi Sundowns have leapfrogged Orlando Pirates at the summit of the Betway Premiership table with a 1-0 victory over Polokwane City FC at Seshego Stadium on Wednesday night.
Despite the vocal home support in Seshego, the defending champions proved too strong for Rise and Shine, as they attacked in numbers in the opening minutes of the showdown. They started with their trademark territorial dominance, circulating the ball with precision.
PLK City attempted to redeem themselves and take control of the match, but the Sundowns backline remained resolute.
The home side goalkeeper, Lindokuhle Mathebula, was called into action on a few occasions, but PLK City’s defence managed to stop Bafana Ba Style’s efforts to ensure they go into the half-time break with a 0-0 scoreline.
POLOKWANE CITY FC AND MAMELODI SUNDOWNS GOALLESS AT HALF-TIME
The second half saw Phuti Mohafe’s men show more intent, pushing numbers forward with the aim of breaking the deadlock. However, their efforts were futile.
As the second stanza progressed, Sundowns began to take charge of the game. This led to Masandawana’s first goal in the 62nd minute of the match, courtesy of Marcelo Allende, with Lebo Mothiba providing the assist.
In the 74th minute, Mothiba missed a penalty after Khulumani Ndamane was brought down in the box. However, the squandered chance didn’t prove costly, as Sundowns will travel back to Pretoria with all three crucial points.
With this result, Sundowns climb up the log standings with 61 points after 26 matches. The Chloorkop-based outfit is now two points ahead of the second-placed Pirates.
On the other hand, PLK City are placed sixth on the log standings with 36 points after 26 matches.
Sundowns and PLK City are set for a quick turnaround as they will meet again at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Tshwane on Sunday.
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