Ramasike warns Sundowns against complacency despite six-point lead

Mamelodi Sundowns legend Eric Ramasike says the club’s six-point advantage at the top of the Betway Premiership does not yet make them clear favourites for the title.

The Tshwane side strengthened their position with a commanding 3-0 victory over Siwelele FC on Wednesday night. Their lead over Orlando Pirates is now six points, although Pirates have played two fewer matches.

Ramasike believes Sundowns must avoid being distracted by their current position and remain focused as the season develops.

“It is still too early to become complacent; we should not let our enthusiasm cloud our judgment. This season promises to be even more challenging,” Ramasike told KickOff.

The former left-footed footballer said the picture could change if Miguel Cardoso’s team were able to move nine points clear. In his view, such a gap would make it considerably harder for a chasing side to mount a successful challenge.

“However, if we can extend the gap to nine points, then we might be discussing a different scenario. At that point, the season could effectively be considered secured. Closing a nine-point deficit against Sundowns is a difficult task,” he said.

Although impressed by the result against Siwelele FC, Ramasike insisted the margin at the top of the table was not yet decisive enough to establish Sundowns as outright title contenders.

“While they played well against Siwelele, a six-point lead is not enough to declare them outright title contenders. Despite their victory, there remains a lack of decisive instinct,” he added.

Ramasike also said he was not convinced that the current advantage offered sufficient protection, warning Sundowns not to ease off.

“Personally, I am not overly optimistic about the six-point lead; we must remain vigilant and avoid complacency,” he said.

Sundowns will next face Chippa United in the league at Buffalo City Stadium on Saturday.