Mamelodi Sundowns claimed a record-extending 15th successive win in the DStv Premiership on Saturday, but they were made to work exceptionally hard for a 1-0 victory over Orlando Pirates.
The Brazilians triumphed at the Orlando Stadium thanks to Cassius Mailula’s early strike and their superb defence, which restricted the Buccaneers to only a few chances despite the hosts enjoying plenty of possession – especially in the second half.
The result means ‘Downs have opened a 24-point lead at the top of the table over nearest chasers Richards Bay (who have played two games fewer), while the Soweto hosts remain in fourth place and a full 27 points adrift of the leaders (Bucs have also played two fewer games).
Sundowns took control of the game early on and wasted no time in claiming the lead. In the sixth minute Neo Maema’s high press stole possession, Themba Zwane was able to feed Cassius Mailula and the young attacker coolly finished beyond goalkeeper Sipho Chaine for 1-0.
Pirates looked for a quick response and a fine free kick delivery from Monnapule Saleng almost brought an own goal from Thapelo Morena, but Ronwen Williams bailed out his teammate with a fine save.
On 25 minutes another Saleng set piece found the head of Goodman Mosele, but the midfielder’s flick-on looped harmlessly over the crossbar. By this stage Pirates were playing with more flow and confidence, but chances in open play were hard to come by.
The first half closed with neither team managing to create any further clear scoring opportunities, though the Brazilians would have been satisfied with their one-goal advantage at the break.
Sundowns opened the second half with urgency and intensity, but Pirates had the first clear chance on 52 minutes when another Saleng delivery – this time from a corner kick – found the head of Thapelo Xoki, but he could not direct his effort on target.
The Buccaneers gathered momentum and were inches away from an equaliser just before the hour mark, as substitute Vincent Pule struck the post with a left-footed shot from just inside the box, and the rebound was then struck straight at Williams by Bandile Shandu.
Pirates continued to dominate the ball and push for a way back into the game, but as they began to take more and more risks, Sundowns enjoyed chances of their own. Mailula, for example, should have put the game to bed on 83 minutes when he was one-on-one with the goalkeeper but failed to get the batter of Chaine.
Nonetheless, the team in yellow and blue held out for a narrow but deserved triumph which takes them one step closer to yet another league title.
The clubs will next be in Nedbank Cup Last 32 action, with Sundowns at home to Richards Bay on Tuesday 7 February, while Pirates will be away to All Stars next Saturday 11 February.
