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EZEKIEL PHALANA
IMAGE SOURCED FROM PSL WEBSITE
Mamelodi Sundowns continued their impressive run in the Betway Premiership, securing a convincing 4-1 victory over Richards Bay at Princess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday night to maintain their position at the summit of the league standings.
Fresh from their MTN8 triumph over Orlando Pirates, the Brazilians carried their winning momentum into the league encounter, registering their seventh victory of the season through goals from Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners, who scored twice, and Fawaaz Basadien.
The victory kept Sundowns one point ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates, although the defending champions have played one fewer match. The result further strengthened Sundowns’ title ambitions as the race for domestic supremacy continues to gather momentum.
Richards Bay, meanwhile, endured another difficult evening, remaining without a league victory this season and slipping to 15th position, with only Marumo Gallants below them on the standings.
The hosts initially threatened to take the lead in the 12th minute when Nqaba Xulu headed home Siyabonga Nzama’s cross. However, the goal was disallowed for offside in the build-up, despite television replays suggesting the decision was questionable.
Sundowns capitalised on their attacking quality in the 18th minute when a flowing passing move culminated in Siyanda Ndlovu delivering a precise pull-back to Matthews, who finished confidently to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage.
Richards Bay responded with determination and restored parity four minutes later. Xulu powered down the left flank before setting up Luyanda Khumalo, whose initial effort was saved by Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. The rebound fell to Lwandile Mabuya, who calmly steered the ball into the net to make it 1-1.
The Brazilians continued to press forward in search of another goal, and their persistence paid off in the 37th minute. Matthews turned provider, delivering an inviting cross from the left for Rayners, who rose unmarked to head home and restore Sundowns’ lead at 2-1.
Sundowns carried their advantage into the break after goalkeeper Ian Otieno denied Teboho Mokoena from a free-kick shortly before half-time.
The visitors wasted little time extending their lead after the restart. Matthews was initially denied by Otieno, but Rayners reacted quickly to convert the rebound and complete his brace, making it 3-1. Although the assistant referee initially raised the offside flag, the referee overruled the decision and awarded the goal.
Sundowns effectively put the contest beyond Richards Bay’s reach just before the hour mark when Basadien produced a superb volley from Mokoena’s assist to make it 4-1.
With a three-goal cushion, Sundowns managed the remainder of the match professionally, controlling proceedings and limiting Richards Bay’s opportunities to mount a comeback.
The victory underlined the Brazilians’ attacking strength and determination to maintain their position at the top of the Betway Premiership following their success in the MTN8.
Sundowns will now turn their attention to the CAF Champions League, where they are scheduled to face Angola’s Wiliete SC. Richards Bay, meanwhile, will seek to revive their league campaign when they travel to face Kruger United on Saturday, 31 October.
As the Betway Premiership season unfolds, Sundowns continue to set the pace, while their rivals face the challenge of keeping up with the reigning domestic heavyweights.