Simply unstoppable! Those two words aptly describe the form of Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, whose performances in recent times have reignited memories of the swaggering attacking football display that has seen them clinch the Hollywoodbets Super League three times in a row.
The 3-0 victory over the University of the Western Cape (UWC) last weekend was great, but it was the performance rather than the scoreline that has reignited the confidence of the team going into their 14th game of the season.
So good was the team at the Tuks Main Stadium that newly signed Refilwe Tholakele fitted in like a glove, slotting a fine strike on her debut. As Banyana Ba Style prepares to face the University of Johannesburg (UJ) FC on Sunday, all eyes will be on the defending champions who will be seeking a sixth straight victory.
Melinda Kgadiete believes the win last week has injected a renewed sense of belief in the dressing room ahead of Sunday’s clash.
“It was an amazing victory that rejuvenated our team and ensured that we are back on top of the league standings once again. The atmosphere in the dressing room is electric, brimming with positivity and anticipation as we look ahead to Sunday’s game. Our ambition is to maintain our position at the summit of the table; however, we are fully aware that a formidable challenge awaits us in the form of UJ,” said the striker.
Kgadiete, who famously bagged a superb brace against UJ last season, is anticipating another dominant showing, “I fondly recall the satisfaction of scoring two goals against them last year. As a striker, my ultimate aim is to contribute to the team’s success by finding the back of the net. Naturally, I am eager for a similar outcome in our upcoming matches, with the added hope of netting even more goals to further support our team’s victory.”
Tiisetso Makhubela, who also found the back of the net in the fixture last season, believes she will be ready to take her opportunities again if they present themselves.
“I was filled with joy when I scored that goal, especially since it was my first since returning to the club. The upcoming game on Sunday gives me another chance to face a team that holds positive memories for me. I am eagerly anticipating the match and sincerely hoping that we can secure all three points for our team,” Makhubela stated.
Sundowns Ladies have enjoyed good fortunes against UJ in recent times. Last season, the Brazilians beat their opponents 3-1 on home soil and registered a 3-0 victory in the reverse meeting. Banyana Ba Style also registered a 2-0 home win and 1-0 away success in the season before.
Interestingly, since the defeat against Royal AM at the beginning of April, Sundowns Ladies have won five straight games, scoring 24 goals while conceding just 4 times!
The clash between Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and UJ FC will take place on Sunday, May 21st, at the UJ Stadium. The kick-off time is 15h00.