Mamelodi Sundowns got back to winning ways in the Betway Premiership after defeating Stellenbosch FC 1-0 on Saturday afternoon.
Aubrey Modiba, Bathusi Aubaas, Kutlwano Letlhaku and Peter Shalulile were restored by the Brazilians following the goalless draw against Kaizer Chiefs.
Sundowns enjoyed a difficult start in the early stages as a first-time volley in the area by Devon Titus sailed narrowly across the top corner of Ronwen Williams’ goal.
Masandawana regained momentum around the midway period and nearly grabbed the lead when a looping header in the area by Shalulile struck the woodwork.
The chances continued going the way of the visitors later on as a teasing shot from a tight angle in the area by Arthur Sales forced goalkeeper Sage Stephens into a fine save.
However, Shalulile broke the deadlock and became the league’s all-time top scorer when he fired in off the underside of the crossbar from the penalty spot after he was brought down just before the halftime break.
Despite having the front-foot, Sundowns still freshened up their stall at the break after bringing on Iqraam Rayners in place of Sales.
Stellenbosch pushed for the equaliser minutes in the second half through Devon Titus, Khomotjo Lekoloane, but struggled to beat the high-line of the Brazilians.
The reigning champions regained momentum and almost doubled the lead when Letlhaku stole possession high-up and unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the area, but he went over.
Given the slow tempo late on, the Maroons pressed high, played over the halfway line and pinned the visitors back but still couldn’t find the net.
Sundowns successfully survived the pressure thrown at them and got back to winning ways to remain unbeaten, as the Maroons' slow start to the campaign continues.
Photo by Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images
Confirmed line-ups:
Stellenbosch FC: Stephens, Enyinnaya, Moloisane, Stanic, Mdaka, Mthiyani, Khiba, Jabaar, De Jong, Lekoloane, Titus
Subs: Masuluke, Nkwali, Mokobodi, Palace, Butsaka, Nku, Khanyi, Mojela, Phili
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Aubaas, Cupido, Khoza, Modiba, Allende, Morena, Letlhaku, Matthews, Sales, Shalulie
Subs: Pieterse, Lebusa, Mdunyelwa, Basadien, Lunga, Mokoena, Adams, Rayners, Mothiba
