Mamelodi Sundowns produced a dominant second-half performance to secure a 3-1 victory over Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday night at the Dr. Molemela Stadium.
The result extends their lead at the top of the table to 12 points.
Gallants take early advantage
Marumo Gallants started brightly, making life difficult for the league leaders.
Teboho Mokoena and Iqram Rayners looked threatening for Sundowns in the opening exchanges, but Rayners sent a header wide in the sixth minute.
Jayden Adams then squandered another opportunity in the 20th minute, failing to capitalise on a lapse in Gallants’ central defence.
The home side eventually broke the deadlock in the 37th minute when Junior Sede Dion capitalised on a defensive lapse to convert a well-placed cross from Daniel Msendami.
Sundowns sought an immediate response, but Lucas Ribeiro’s effort moments later drifted off target.
Sundowns turn the game around
Sundowns came out with renewed intensity in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 53rd minute.
Marcelo Allende levelled the score with a powerful low-driven strike, giving the visitors the momentum they needed to push forward.
Both teams made tactical changes, with Gallants introducing Gabadinho Mhango and Sundowns bringing on Arthur Sales in search of a breakthrough.
Gallants nearly reclaimed the lead when Junior Sindonga forced a brilliant save from goalkeeper Denis Onyango.
However, it was Sundowns who seized control in the final ten minutes.
Ribeiro finally found the back of the net in the 80th minute, putting Sundowns ahead.
Just a minute later, Rayners added a third, effectively sealing the win.
Sundowns maintain firm grip on top spot
Despite a late red card for Onyango, Sundowns managed to see out the match comfortably.
The victory takes them to 45 points from 17 games, widening the gap over second-placed Orlando Pirates, whose fixture on Wednesday was postponed.
Sundowns now turn their attention to Saturday’s clash against TS Galaxy, where they will be seeking redemption after a recent 1-0 defeat.
