sportskeeda
Mamelodi Sundowns reinforced their standing at the top of the Betway Premiership by achieving a 2-0 victory over Richards Bay at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday.
Arthur Sales opened the account for Sundowns in the first half, followed by Lucas Ribeiro Costa, who doubled the lead with a powerful strike from the edge of the area in the second half.
Iqraam Rayners had an opportunity to increase the scoreline after dancing around Salim Magoola, but a tight angle denied him a successful shot, resulting in a crucial clearance. Rayners attempted to recover and set up Peter Shalulile, but Shalulile’s acrobatic effort went wide.
Despite this missed opportunity, Sundowns secured the victory, extending their lead in the Betway Premiership to 30 points after 11 matches.
Sundowns have played two additional matches compared to second-placed Orlando Pirates, who are set to face Magesi at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday. A win for the Pirates would elevate them to 27 points, just three points behind Sundowns with a game in hand.
The victory for Sundowns took place on a dry pitch in Durban, yet this did not hinder their commanding display. Sales capitalized on a pass from Costa to delicately chip the ball over Magoola in the 19th minute.
While Sundowns enjoyed a strong first half, they continued their attacking momentum in the second. Aubrey Modiba set up Costa, who expertly curled a shot past Magoola to score the second goal.
This victory marks Sundowns’ fourth consecutive win under their new coach, Miguel Cardoso, with the team scoring five goals across four matches in all competitions. Notably, Sundowns have yet to concede a goal during Cardoso’s tenure.
