Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies sent out yet another solid and ominous message to their league rivals with a dominant 3-0 victory over the University of the Western Cape (UWC) at the Tuks Main Stadium on Sunday.
A first-half strike from Chuene Morifi, coupled with second-half goals from Andisiwe Mgcoyi and Refilwe Tholakele, was enough to hand Banyana Ba Style all three points and ascend to the top spot on the Hollywoodbets Super League log.
The top-of-the-table clash burst into life from the blast of the whistle as both teams were keen to stamp their authority early on. However, it was the Brazilians who drew first blood thanks to a well-taken strike from Chuene Morifi, who found the back of the net for the second game running.
Sundowns Ladies continued to apply the pressure but were unable to increase their tally before the break. That situation changed after the restart, with Andisiwe Mgcoyi blasting in her fifth goal of the season from close range.
Refilwe Tholakele, who was making her debut, sealed the deal late on to hand maximum points to the reigning champions.
At the end of the game, Coach Jerry Tshabalala praised the performance of his troops, who delivered a superb performance from start to finish, and also reserved praise for Refilwe, who was impressed on her debut.
“The girls delivered an exceptional performance, showcasing their immense talent and skill on the field of play. Our thorough preparations paid off, as we demonstrated our status as one of the top teams in Africa. We dominated tactically in every aspect of the game, from defense to offense. I must commend Tholakele for displaying her exceptional finishing and class in her debut match with our team. Her contribution was truly remarkable,” Coach Jerry stated.
The Botswana forward spoke about what it means to score in her first outing for the Chloorkop-based side.
“The game was undoubtedly filled with pressure, and I want to express my gratitude to my teammates and coaches for their unwavering support throughout my first match. Scoring that goal was crucial in helping me settle my nerves, and it has given me a boost of confidence for the upcoming games. I am already excited and eagerly anticipating our next match,” said Tholakele.
Nonhlanhla Mthandi who delivered a masterful performance across the pitch was named Player of the Match.
“UWC has had a strong season, showcasing their consistency at various times throughout the campaign. It was evident that we needed to elevate our performance to secure a victory against them, and I am pleased to say that we successfully achieved that. We are genuinely satisfied with the outcome of the game, as it reflects the hard work and dedication we put into our training sessions leading up to the match,” Mthandi stated.
The victory ensured that Sundowns Ladies have now assumed the top position on the log with 34 points from 13 games, one point ahead of UWC.
In terms of goal-scoring for Sundowns Ladies, Andisiwe Mgcoyi’s goal brings her season total to five goals, one behind Melinda Kgadiete, who has six strikes. Boitumelo Rabale still leads the chart with 11 goals. Meanwhile, Chuene Morifi is on three for the season, one behind Lelona Daweti, who has four goals.
Up next for Sundowns Ladies is a clash against the University of Johannesburg (UJ) FC.
Good on you ladies… UWC were the biggest threat… Still poses as the biggest threat to retaining the league. Well done ladies!!!
Weii done ladies solid performance and good tactics from the technical team.Welcome home to Refilwe Tholakele now we have reinforced our attack with an experienced campainer who knows where the net is
Well done ladies we’re behind you and proud of you Champs