Mamelodi Sundowns triumphed over Maritzburg United with a 1-0 win at Loftus Stadium last Wednesday, stretching their lead at the top of the Premiership table to an impressive five points.
Match Report
First Half
The match kicked off with tight play, as Maritzburg United pressed high, frustrating Sundowns and limiting their attacking threats early on.
Despite the pressure, the Team of Choice crafted notable chances. Lebogang Maboe nearly connected with a crucial cross, and he forced goalkeeper Denis Onyango into a save. Sundowns struggled initially, with Themba Zwane’s header and Sibusiso Vilakazi’s chance both narrowly missed.
Chances continued to come Sundowns’ way; Hlompho Kekana’s effort was denied by Richard Ofori, and a headed attempt by the Sundowns’ captain sailed wide with an unmarked opportunity.
Second Half
The second half saw Onyango perform crucial saves, repelling shots from Fortune Makaringe and Evans Rusike early in the half.
The Brazilians found their rhythm as the game progressed. The breakthrough came when Tau confidently finished a low shot after an intelligent pass from Kekana, both key Bafana Bafana internationals.
Tau almost doubled the lead with two more opportunities, while Maritzburg defender Pogiso Sanoka responded with a close chip attempt and had a late goal disallowed in the 85th minute.
The closing stages were intense, with Sundowns defending resolutely to secure this vital three points in a tense, competitive encounter.
