The Mamelodi Sundowns Diski Team have climbed up to second on the DStv Diski Challenge tally, from fourth, following their 1-0 win over the Amazulu Reserves on Sunday afternoon at Lucas Moripe Stadium. It was midfielder Khumo Mokoele’s heroics that saw the Brazilians claim another victory in their sixth match of the season.
The encounter promised to be an exciting one with Masandawana having a home ground advantage, despite being the away team. They looked so strong from the beginning, dominating possession and looking to crack the Usuthu defence. They almost got it right in the first five minutes when Thulani Zandamela got very close to hitting the net in the danger zone but the Amazulu goalkeeper fouled him in the box, causing the referee to point on the spot. The penalty kick was not fruitful as the goalie made a save to deny the visitors an early goal.
After plenty of chances, in the stroke of the halftime break, Mokoele displayed a moment of brilliance to put his side ahead. The ball came from Malibongwe Khoza to find Mokoele’s feet. At first with reluctance to shoot, within a scramble in the box, the midfielder gained enough confidence to hit a powerful finish, stunning his opponents.
The hosts looked more settled and comfortable with the ball in the second stanza, as they created clear-cut chances but Downs’ shot stopper, Nqobani Biyela – who was named man of the match – made crucial saves to keep a clean sheet. In the final minutes of the match, with a few changes made, the Pretoria-based side looked more threatening as they looked to extend their lead. A 1-0 scoreline was however what coach David’s charges had to settle for when the full time whistle was blown.
How we lined up: Biyela, Mampane, Khoza, Nkabinde, Norawana, Nkosi ©, Ngqakabana, Mokoela, Masisi, Zandamela, Siquba,
Subs: Shabangu, Booysen, Mtyali, Mokoena, Jodamus.
