Mamelodi Sundowns extend lead with convincing win over Siwelele

Mamelodi Sundowns strengthened their position at the top of the Betway Premiership with a 3-0 victory over struggling Siwelele FC at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday.

The result gives the defending champions a six-point advantage over second-placed Orlando Pirates, although Sundowns have played two more matches. They have now won five successive games in all competitions and remain unbeaten after seven league fixtures this season.

Their outstanding home record also continued. Sundowns are now unbeaten in their past 33 Betway Premiership matches at Loftus Versfeld, with their last league defeat at the stadium coming against Cape Town City in the final home match of the 2023/24 campaign.

Despite the emphatic scoreline, Sundowns were made to work for their victory and could not break through until the second half.

Siwelele were playing their first match under caretaker coach Godfrey Mosoetsa, who took charge following the departure of Lehlohonolo Seema. The visitors offered a threat on the counter-attack during the opening period, with Christian Saile breaking forward to create an early opportunity.

Selaelo Rasebotja also found space in a promising position but could not keep his effort on target.

Sundowns controlled much of the game but were below their best in the final third. Cassius Mailula was unable to convert one chance, while Aubrey Modiba sent a long-range attempt over the crossbar shortly before half-time.

The introduction of Mothobi Mvala after the interval helped Sundowns raise the tempo. It was his first appearance in almost a year.

The hosts finally took the lead in the 58th minute. Teboho Mokoena struck the underside of the crossbar with a powerful effort from distance, and Letlhaku reacted quickest to the rebound, turning the ball in from close range.

The goal was particularly significant for Letlhaku, who was making his first start of the campaign.

Siwelele goalkeeper Wandile Mthombeni then kept his side in the contest with two important saves. He denied Modiba from a free-kick before preventing Mailula from scoring at close range.

The visitors’ resistance ended in the closing stages after a misplaced back-pass from Aphiwe Baliti gave substitute Siyanda Ndlovu a clear opportunity. Ndlovu took advantage to score in his second consecutive match.

Sundowns added a third goal in stoppage time when Matthews collected a loose ball and lifted his finish over the advancing Mthombeni.

The league leaders next travel to Chippa United on Saturday. Siwelele remain 15th in the table and are still without a win after six matches. They will host Golden Arrows on Sunday.