Mamelodi Sundowns’ heavy fixture demands have stretched Rulani Mokwena’s usage of his squad to the brim.
Sundowns played their 47th game of the season on Tuesday and it was a league result which left them in need of only six points to seal their seventh consecutive DStv Premiership title.
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The Brazilians’ next match is a crucial CAF Champions League second leg tie against Esperance on Friday under lights, before they travel to Kaizer Chiefs on Thursday.
Of note in the 2-1 win over Sekhukhune United was the introduction of Jody February, who came on from the bench to replace the injured Denis Onyango after 37 minutes.
This was February’s first appearance for the club since he was signed in July 2019 and left Mokwena impressed.
"Jody was magnificent and I’m very proud of him.
"He does deserve special praise, even though I don’t like to single out individuals.
"Even though he hasn’t played for a long time, he showed his qualities and why he is at Sundowns," says Mokwena.
Through the years, February has moved on loan to three clubs, playing for AmaZulu FC (2022/23), Moroka Swallows (2021/22) and Cape Umoya United.
His introduction meant Mokwena has now used 42 players this season across all competitions.
Ronwen Williams, Onyango and Reyaad Pieterse have played between the posts.
In defence, Rushine De Reuck, Brian Mandela Onyango, Terrence Mashego, Khuliso Mudau, Mothobi Mvala, Rivaldo Coetzee, Divine Lunga, Zuko Mdunyelwa, Thapelo Morena, Grant Kekana, Mosa Lebusa, Abdelmounaim Boutouil, Aubrey Modiba and Sifiso Ngobeni (now on loan at AmaZulu) have had minutes.
Teboho Mokoena has led the midfield with Bongani Zungu, Marcelo Allende, Bathusi Aubaas, Sammy Seabi, Thapelo Maseko, Lebohang Maboe, Sipho Mbule and Sphelele Mkhuslile all playing.
Slightly further up the pitch Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Thembinkosi Lorch, Tashreeq Matthews, Lesiba Nku, Gaston Sirino, Junior Mendieta, Themba Zwane, Neo Maema, Ntandoyenkosi Nkosi, Siyanda Nyanga, Keabetswe Ramotsei, Kutlwano Letlhaku and Siyabonga Mabena have all had minutes.
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Peter Shalulile, Matias Esquivel, and Abubeker Nasir have played upfront.
Thando Buthelezi was on the bench on Tuesday and is next on the queue for his chance.
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