Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies kicked off the new Hollywoodbets Super League season in spectacular fashion, securing a commanding 4-0 victory over Royal AM.
Boitumelo Rabale, last season’s Player of the Season, showcased her prowess with a brace, complemented by well-taken strikes from Andisiwe Mgcoyi and debutant Nthabiseng Majiya. These goals secured all three points for Banyana Ba Style at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.
From the opening whistle, the Brazilians asserted themselves, with Mgcoyi and Lehlogonolo Mashigo threatening on multiple occasions. The early pressure bore fruit, as Rabale netted the opener in the 16th minute. Notably, the left-footed forward had also scored the opening goal for Sundowns Ladies in last season’s 1-0 victory against Richmond United.
The continental champions maintained their offensive momentum, and just before the halftime break, Andisiwe Mgcoyi’s fine finish rewarded their efforts.
After the break, Nthabiseng Majiya and Cimone Sauls made their debuts, replacing Mgcoyi and Mashigo. Seven minutes after coming on, Majiya found the back of the net as Sundowns Ladies extended their lead to 3-0.
Rabale then completed her brace, securing a memorable 4-0 victory and propelling Masandawana to a perfect start to the season.
Goalkeeper Coach Koketso Tshabalala was pleased with the outcome of the game given the challenge put up by the opponents last season.
“The game went very well, considering we lost 1-0 at home and drew 1-1 against them last season. Coming into this fixture, we knew the importance of getting a good result against them and it is a perfect way to begin the season. Aside from securing the maximum points, we also secured our first clean sheet of the season. The confidence gained from this victory will set a positive tone for the upcoming matches. We are eagerly looking forward to the next game, aiming to build on this success and maintain our momentum,” Coach Koketso stated.
Defender Tiisetso ‘Bastos’ Makhubela echoed this sentiment, expressing delight with the team’s defensive and offensive cohesion. “I am very happy with the way we defended and even attacked as a unit. It shows the hard work we put in on the training ground is paying off. Maintaining a solid defense is crucial in a competitive league such as this and I believe our collective effort will be a key factor throughout the season.”
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies will now turn their attention to the second game of the season, a clash against TS Galaxy Queens scheduled for Saturday, 9th of March 2024.
