With a 3-0 victory over City Lads Ladies at the Westbourne Oval Stadium in the Eastern Cape, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies took a big step toward regaining their Hollywoodbets Super League crown.
Boitumelo Rabale, Chantelle Esau, and Miche Minnies scored enough goals to secure a crucial win.
Coach Jerry ‘Kappa’ Tshabalala rotated his starting lineup, with Melinda Kgadiete, Boitumelo Rabale, and Lelona Daweti spearheading a three-pronged attack.
Oratile Mokwena, Chantelle Esau, and Lehlogonolo Mashigo began the game in the midfield, while Zanele Nhlapho, Khutso Pila, Bambanani Mbane, and Thalea Smidt anchored the defense. Asa Rabalao was selected to play in goal.
Boitumelo Rabale scored the game’s first goal, her 12th of the season, less than a minute into the contest after the roster had been significantly altered.
Midway through the first half, the home team gained momentum and was awarded a penalty kick, which was sent wide of the goal post. A few minutes later, Bambanani Mbane was sent off for elbowing her opponent while competing for the ball in midair.
Lehlogonolo Mashigo was subsequently substituted by Regina Mogolola as the reigning continental champions won the first half 1-0.
After halftime, Chantelle Esau’s remarkable goal-scoring form continued with her fourth goal in as many games as Sundowns Ladies doubled their lead.
Kappa then introduced Chantelle Esau, Lelona Daweti, and Asa Rabalao to Miche Minnies, Karabo Makhurubetshi, and Andile Dlamini.
Miche Minnies capitalized on her introduction with a spectacular goal to make the score 3-0. This goal was enough to secure the victory for the Brazilians, who continued their stellar start to the season.
Despite the early red card incurred by Bambanani, team captain Zanele Nhlapho lauded the team’s hard spirit.
“I am quite pleased with how valiantly we fought because the contest was by no means simple. The early red card disrupted our rhythm, but we found a way to persevere. Long-term play with 10 ladies pushed us to our limits, and we had to dig deep to achieve victory. Everyone fought valiantly for this outcome, and we are pleased to have earned maximum points after such a grueling battle. Due to the team’s tiredness from playing twice a week, we also pay thanks to the technical staff for managing the squad. “Three goals, three points, and a clean sheet make us happy, and now it’s time to plan for the next game,” commented Captain Zanele.
After 15 games, Sundowns Ladies have amassed 42 points courtesy to their 14 victories. The Brazilians have scored the most goals in the league with 67, while conceding nine times.
Well done to our Ladies!