Mamelodi Sundowns moved level with Orlando Pirates at the top of the Betway Premiership standings after beating Sekhukhune United 3-0 at Loftus on Saturday.
The defending champions took the lead when Sekhukhune defender Tresor Tshibwabwa turned the ball into his own net while Arthur Sales netted his first goal for Masandawana before Iqraam Rayners found the back of the net late on.
It took Sundowns 22 minutes to open the scoring when they found space down the left and Aubrey Modiba sent in a low cross that saw Tshibwabwa score an own goal going for sliding clearance. The visitors were a threat on attack in the first half and Keletso Makgalwa had their best opportunity but was denied by Ronwen Williams.
The hosts were then awarded a penalty early in the second half when goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare was adjudged to have brought down Rayners inside the box with the contact looking minimal. Brazilian forward Sales was given the responsibility and made no mistake from the spot to give Sundowns a two-goal cushion.
Williams was again called into action, making brilliant save from Vuyo Letlapa’s effort that looked destined for the back of the net. Sundowns then completed the scoring for the contest in the 89th minute when Rayners remained composed just inside the box and curled a beauty into the top corner.
The victory moved Masandawana level on 21 points with the Buccaneers but the Soweto giants can take the outright lead again with a win or draw against Stellenbosch on Sunday.
- Additional information by SABC Online.
