Mamelodi Sundowns extended their lead at the top of the Betway Premiership standings to 12 points following a 3-1 victory over Marumo Gallants on Wednesday night at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium.
Entering the match with a nine-point lead over second-placed Orlando Pirates, Sundowns remained in control of the title race. However, Pirates have two games in hand and have now played three fewer matches than Sundowns.
Sundowns started with captain Denis Onyango in goal, but the veteran goalkeeper was beaten by Junior Dion, who gave Gallants the lead in the first half. At the break, Gallants led 1-0, and Sundowns were determined to turn things around.
The second half saw Sundowns respond strongly. Marcelo Allende leveled the score in the 51st minute with a powerful strike from inside the box. In the 79th minute, Lucas Ribeiro Costa put Sundowns ahead with his 10th league goal of the season. Two minutes later, Iqraam Rayners sealed the win with a third goal, securing all three points for the Brazilians.
However, there was drama late in the game as Onyango was sent off, leaving Sundowns without a goalkeeper after making all their substitutions. Thapelo Morena stepped in as goalkeeper for the remainder of the match.
The victory puts Sundowns on 45 points from 17 games, 12 points clear of Pirates, who remain on 33 points after 14 matches. Pirates’ scheduled match against Golden Arrows was abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch.
