By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena has refused to consider the Premier Soccer League (PSL) title race as already settled.
The Brazilians enjoy a seven-point gap at the top of the standings amid an incredible run of eight successive league wins.
After their latest victory on Tuesday, when they beat Swallows FC 2-0, the Birds’ coach Ernst Middendorp suggested Sundowns’ campaign had already been sealed.
But Mokwena has dismissed Middendorp’s view, saying it is premature title talk and no championship is won in January.
“I have great respect for coach Ernst and his opinions, but it is too early to say the league is wrapped up because there is still a long way to go,” said Mokwena post-match.
“No league title has ever been won in January, there are still so many games to go. This is an important win against a very difficult team [Swallows].”
“We expected it, we spoke about it; even here in the presser we said it was going to be difficult and it proved to be very difficult. But these are the games that win you championships.”
What could have influenced Middendorp’s remarks is the current dominance by Sundowns, which is the similar way of doing business that has delivered them five straight league titles.
Despite being blighted by a spate of injuries, even after the 2022 Fifa World Cup break, Masandawana have shown depth in their squad.
But Mokwena said they are yet to identify areas to beef up this January player transfer window, although he hints at bolstering their strikeforce.
They are currently depleted upfront due to injuries to Peter Shalulile, Abubeker Nasir, Thabiso Kutumela and Lebohang Maboe.
“We are of course always looking to improve our squad. We are quite fortunate that we have developed quite a flexibility amongst our players,” Mokwena said.”
“For sure, we will look at areas in the team and try to see whether or not we can improve and if the striking department is one of those departments, then we’ll try our level best.”
“But the January transfer window is such a difficult market because there’s also no time for adaptation but there may be something interesting that might come up and be available so let’s wait and see.”
Sundowns now target the scalp of Richards Bay on Friday as they look to complete a nine-match winning streak.
Pictured above: Rhulani Mokwena
Image source: Mamelodi Sundowns FC
