Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies took another giant step towards retaining their Hollywoodbets Super League title with a 3-0 win over City Lads Ladies at the Westbourne Oval Stadium in the Eastern Cape.
Goals from Boitumelo Rabale, Chantelle Esau, and Miche Minnies were enough to secure a much-needed victory.
With the games coming thick and fast, Coach Jerry ‘Kappa’ Tshabalala rotated his squad with Melinda Kgadiete, Boitumelo Rabale, and Lelona Daweti starting in a three-prong attack.
Oratile Mokwena, Chantelle Esau, and Lehlogonolo Mashigo started in midfield while Zanele Nhlapho, Khutso Pila, Bambanani Mbane and Thalea Smidt anchored the defence. Asa Rabalao got the nod in between the sticks.
The much-changed lineup did have an instant impact under a minute into the game with Boitumelo Rabale slotting the game’s opener and her 12th goal of the season.
The hosts stepped up their momentum midway through the first half and were awarded a penalty which was blazed wide off the post. A few minutes later, Bambanani Mbane received her marching orders after she was adjudged to have elbowed her opponent while contesting for the ball in mid-air.
Subsequently, Lehlogonolo Mashigo was replaced by Regina Mogolola as the first half ended 1-0 in favor of the reigning continental champions.
After the break, Chantelle Esau continued her fascinating goal-scoring form with her fourth goal in as many games as Sundowns Ladies doubled their advantage.
Kappa then introduced Miche Minnies, Karabo Makhurubetshi, and Andile Dlamini for Chantelle Esau, Lelona Daweti and Asa Rabalao.
Miche Minnies made then made the most of her introduction with a stunning strike to make it 3-0. That goal was enough to seal the victory as The Brazilians continued their scintillating start to the campaign.
Captain Zanele Nhlapho praised the work ethic of the team despite the early red card received by Bambanani.
“I am very happy with the way we fought gallantly because the match was not easy by any means. The early red card destabilized our rhythm, but we found a way to weather the storms. Playing with 10 women for a long time pushed us to the limit and we had to dig deep for the result. Everyone fought hard for this result, and we are proud to claim maximum points after such a difficult battle. We also give credit to the technical team for managing the squad due to the fatigue from playing twice every week. Getting three goals and three points and keeping a clean sheet makes us happy and it’s time to plan for the next,” Captain Zanele stated.
Sundowns Ladies have now accumulated 42 points thanks to 14 wins after 15 games played. The Brazilians have scored a league-high 67 goals and have conceded nine times.
Well done to our Ladies!
