By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns missed the opportunity to reclaim the Premier Soccer League (PSL) top spot after going down 1-0 to Polokwane City at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday.
Bulelani Nikani struck for Polokwane with eight minutes remaining, condemning the Brazilians to their first league defeat of the season. This result keeps Sundowns in second place on the table, three points behind log leaders Orlando Pirates.
Following Sunday’s result, Rise and Shine moved up to fourth on the standings, five points behind the Buccaneers.
It was revenge for Polokwane after they were eliminated from the MTN8 by Masandawana, who had to sweat for that victory as it stretched to extra time.
Zimbabwean forward Douglas Mapfumo was surprisingly benched by Polokwane City coach Phuti Mohafe, who also made former Sundowns midfielder Sammy Seabi a substitute.
In a show of quality and depth, Sundowns made 11 changes to the team that started in midweek against Royal AM.
Rushine de Reuck and Siyabonga Mabena made their first starts of the season, while goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was in France for Monday’s Ballon d’Or awards.
With Iqraam Rayners leading Masandawana’s attack, supported by Tashreeq Matthews and Mabena, Sundowns struggled in front of goal.
The home side almost took the lead on 45 minutes when Thabang Matuludi’s miscued shot went across the face of the goal.
Just after the hour mark, Rayners came close but was denied by Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Manuel Sapunga.
Polokwane City consistently looked dangerous, with Hlayisi Chauke heading over the bar with only Denis Onyango to beat off a delivery from Bonginkosi Dlamini.
Veteran goalkeeper Onyango was later forced into a desperate dive, punching out Matuludi’s shot with 18 minutes remaining.
The defining moment of the contest came when Nikani converted a Cole Alexander freekick.
Meanwhile, Cape Town City were held to a 0-0 draw by Magesi at Athlone Stadium, remaining in 12th position on the table, while their visitors from Limpopo sit one place below them.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns utility player Thapelo Morena in action against Polokwane City.
Source: PSL
