Friday afternoon at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Mamelodi Sundowns easily defeated rivals Orlando Pirates to win their final game of 2022. Despite the challenging conditions, the Brazilians displayed composure and control to collect three points and strengthen their position atop the DStv Premiership table.
Before the game began, the home fans were treated to a unique opening ceremony with a performance by Hlogi Mashigo, who was born in Mamelodi, and a dance routine by 100 local children.
On the field, the game got off to a cautious start due to the wet circumstances, which compelled both teams to avoid making any mistakes. In the seventh minute, Marcelo Allende opportunistically attempted to catch Pirates goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane off his line by attempting a long-range shot that was saved.
In the first half, Masandawana dominated possession in the opposing half, and when they were tested, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams repelled Monnapule Saleng and Thapelo Xoki’s attempts.
Four minutes before halftime, Mothobi Mvala soared above the Pirates’ defenders to head home a Mercelo Allende cross into the box, giving the Brazilians the lead. As Downs went into halftime with a one-goal advantage, Mvala’s performance in the middle of the defense would earn him the match’s MVP award. Moments before the halftime whistle, Abubeker Nasir was carried out on a stretcher after sustaining an injury in a clash with Mpontshane inside the penalty area.
Cassius Mailula entered the field to replace Nasir at halftime and came close to connecting with Gaston Sirino’s low cross into the penalty area within minutes. Shortly after the one-point mark, Mailula made his mark on the game by tapping in Neo Maema’s rebounded shot to double the lead.
Sipho Mbule, Haashim Domingo, Sphelele Mkhulisi, and Sifiso Ngobeni all made their way onto the field over the remainder of the half, as the technical crew officiated the game. Downs remained hungry for a third goal despite their comfortable advantage, but Mpontshane saved Zwane’s one-on-one attempt.
The victory allows Masandawana to continue their impressive home run and finish the year atop the DStv Premiership standings with 31 points after 13 matches.
Bafana Ba Style are preparing for another home match against Swallows FC on Tuesday evening as the action continues to pick up speed in the new year.
How We Aligned.
Williams, Mudau, Mvala, Kekana, Morena (Ngobeni), Mokoena, Allende (Mkhulise), Maema (Domingo), Zwane ©, Sirino(Mbule) , Nasir (Mailula)
Subs: D. Onyango, De Reuck, Mkhulise, Ngobeni, Domingo, Jali, Mbule, Motupa, Mailula
»Masandawana Defeats the Buccaneers in the Final Match of the Year«