Goalkeeper Asa Rabalao’s return between the sticks has coincided with a series of victories for the Hollywoodbets Super League defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, helping them reclaim pole position.
The shot-stopper retained her place in the starting line-up following her stellar performances against Golden Ladies and Durban Ladies.
Rabalao is in a healthy competition with Andile Dlamini, who walked away with the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament after guiding Desiree Ellis’ Banyana Banyana to their first ever WAFCON triumph.
“It’s so good to be back after a long while, thanks to the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and recent COSAFA qualifiers,” Rabalao told Sundowns’ media.
She went on to reflect on her side’s performances from their last two league games and hopes that Banyana Ba Style maintains their good unbeaten run in order to reclaim the top spot.
“We [Sundowns] played so well against Golden Ladies, and we faced stiffer opposition. The aim was to get maximum points in both games, and we fought gallantly.
“We created good chances against Durban Ladies, but unfortunately, we could not improve the score line.
“Nevertheless, we are happy with the result, and we are hoping to extend our impressive run in the next game,” she added.
The red-hot Brazilians have recorded 12 wins after 13 games played. Sundowns have scored a league-high 57 goals and have conceded a joint-league best of nine goals.
On the club’s goalscoring charts, Andisiwe Mgcoyi has found the back of the net on 11 occasions, whereas Miche Minnies have scored nine times. Rhoda Mulaudzi has netted five goals this campaign, the same number of goals as the new signing Salome Kekana.
Sundowns will take on relegation zone threatened side Tsunami Queens away from home this afternoon (15:00).
A victory will see Downs Ladies leapfrog log leaders Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on a better goal difference. As things stand, TUT are placed on the summit of the Super League table with 39 points from 18 outings, while Jerry Tshabalala’s side finds themselves in the third position with 36 points.
