Mamelodi Sundowns ease past Richards Bay as Iqraam Rayners scores twice

Mamelodi Sundowns opened up a commanding lead in the second half to secure a 4-1 win over Richards Bay FC in their Betway Premiership meeting at Princess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Iqraam Rayners scored twice, while Tashreeq Matthews and Fawaaz Basadien were also on target for Sundowns. Lwandile Mabuya scored Richards Bay’s only goal.

Miguel Cardoso made four changes to the side that started the final against Orlando Pirates, with Siyanda Ndlovu, Rayners, Cassius Mailula and Basadien coming into the line-up. Thapelo Morena, Brayan Leon, Nuno Santos and Aubrey Modiba dropped out.

Sundowns controlled possession from the opening moments and looked the more likely side to score. Richards Bay, known as the Natal Rich Boyz, briefly appeared to take the lead when Nqaba Xulu headed in, but the goal was ruled out for offside despite the forward appearing level with the Sundowns defensive line.

The visitors went ahead in the 18th minute after a flowing move ended with Matthews finishing inside the box. Ndlovu provided the final pass to set up the opening goal.

Richards Bay responded almost immediately. Ronwen Williams saved an initial effort, but Mabuya reacted fastest to the rebound and turned it in to restore parity.

Cardoso’s team continued to dominate the ball and created several chances as they pursued a second goal. Richards Bay remained a threat on the counter-attack, however, breaking forward quickly whenever they won possession.

Sundowns regained the advantage in the 35th minute. Matthews delivered an accurate cross and Rayners rose highest to head the ball beyond the Richards Bay goalkeeper, giving the visitors a 2-1 lead at half-time.

Rayners added his second goal soon after the restart to put Sundowns firmly in control. Matthews again supplied the assist, although the assistant referee initially raised the flag for offside. Referee Moreki Lekwape overruled the decision and awarded the goal.

Richards Bay tried to respond, but struggled to build momentum as Sundowns continued to dictate the tempo. The visitors then increased their advantage when Basadien tapped in from close range after Teboho Mokoena found him with a cleverly chipped pass.

Sundowns managed the closing stages with authority, retaining possession and limiting Richards Bay’s opportunities to launch another comeback. The result gave the visitors maximum points away from home.