Mamelodi Sundowns close on Kaizer Chiefs as Orlando Pirates suffer shock defeat

Mamelodi Sundowns moved to within two points of DStv Diski Challenge leaders Kaizer Chiefs after defeating AmaZulu 3-0, while defending champions Orlando Pirates were beaten 3-1 by Richards Bay on Saturday.

The result strengthened Sundowns’ position near the top of the standings, but Pirates missed the opportunity to collect points after surrendering a lead against their KwaZulu-Natal opponents.

Three of the day’s earlier fixtures also produced victories for the home sides.

Kruger United, one of the newcomers, claimed a 3-2 win over Siwelele FC in a five-goal contest. Polokwane City were more convincing, thrashing relegation-threatened Chippa United 4-1.

Marumo Gallants also took maximum points, edging TS Galaxy FC 1-0 to improve their position in the relegation battle.

Sundowns ease past AmaZulu

Sundowns opened the scoring after eight minutes when Bennet Mokoena converted from the penalty spot. It was the first goal of the campaign for last season’s leading scorer.

Simphiwe Mlondo doubled the advantage in the 23rd minute, producing an accomplished finish from just inside the penalty area. The goal took his tally to seven for the campaign.

AmaZulu were unable to mount a response, and Sundowns completed a comfortable victory in the 72nd minute. Mlondo scored his second of the afternoon by sending his shot between the goalkeeper’s legs to make it 3-0.

The brace left Mlondo level with Kaizer Chiefs forward Neo Bohloko in the leading scorers’ standings on eight goals.

Richards Bay overturn deficit

Pirates appeared to have made the ideal start against Richards Bay when Siyabonga Ngwenya scored for the defending champions in the 18th minute.

Richards Bay recovered before half-time, with Luyanda Mthembu bringing the scores level. Khayalethu Ndlangamandla then put the Natal Rich Boyz ahead before Mpilwenhle Dlamini completed the turnaround.

The 3-1 result gave Richards Bay all three points and condemned Orlando Pirates to a surprise defeat in the final afternoon fixture.

Saturday’s results:

Kruger United 3-2 Siwelele FC Marumo Gallants 1-0 TS Galaxy FC Polokwane City 4-1 Chippa United AmaZulu FC 0-3 Mamelodi Sundowns Richards Bay 3-1 Orlando Pirates