For the second week in a row Mamelodi Sundowns left it late and secured the win in the dying moments of the game as Peter Shalulile continued his impressive scoring run to secure all three points at the Danie Craven Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Twenty-four days after their last league encounter, The Brazilians returned to DStv Premiership action looking to extend their lead at the top of the table in their rescheduled fixture against Stellenbosch FC. Both teams had to contend with the heat as the clash kicked off at 13:00 in the Cape Winelands.
The game started with Downs setting the pace, controlling possession and looking to break through the compact Stellenbosch midfield. The home side handled the pressure and saw themselves grow into the game as the first half went on. Shortly after the half-hour mark, the hosts opened the scoring after Stanley Digmba latched onto a shot that was off-target before firing past Denis Onyango in goals.
Stellies scored the only goal of the first half as Masandawana went into the break trailing at half-time.
With all the work to do in the second-half, Gaston Sirino was on hand to provide parity as he equalized six minutes into the second stanza after he was unselfishly tee’d up by Shalulile. The afternoon was dampened by the unfortunate injury suffered by Kermit Erasmus, who came on as a substitute and had to be stretchered off ten minutes after coming on.
The second half went on with both sides eager to claim their second of the afternoon. Mauricio Affonso – who came on for the injured Erasmus – made his return to the fold after a near thirteen month absence. The Uruguayan striker almost made an instant impact as he saw a looping header saved by Sage Stephens in goals.
With five minutes being added onto the clock, The Brazilians threw the kitchen sink at Stellies in an effort to steal all three points, and Downs were rewarded as substitute Aubrey Modiba played an inch-perfect cross to Shalulile who headed home and ensured that the team left Stellenbosch with all three points.
The win takes Masandawana to thirty-nine points at the top of the DStv Premiership table.
Yoh this team is gonna makes us gain weight, I mean the boys are marvelous even though it was hot in C.Town.
Serious Downs the way are winning is out of expectations, what We are doing is operation “social distancing” we don’t want any team to be nearer to us in terms of points, Kby forever
Unfortunately some of us were not aware of the kick-off time. However, kudos to everyone (at Sundowns) who played their role in ensuring that all the chasing packs start feeling the heat having to see the Champions opening the gap at the top of the table. Few days ago I use to hear many saying games at hands speaks nothing, and that only points count. Ironically, we are now showing them how points are collected