Staff Reporter.
Mamelodi Sundowns have opened a 12-point lead at the top of the Betway Premiership, after a midweek round which saw six matches played across Tuesday and Wednesday.
Wednesday evening should have featured a trio of matches, but the clash between Golden Arrows and Orlando Pirates at the Mpumalanga Stadium in Hammarsdale was abandoned before kick-off due to a waterlogged pitch.
And Sundowns took full advantage of their title rival’s inaction, defeating Marumo Gallants 3-1 at the Dr. Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein to move 12 points clear of the second-placed Buccaneers (who now have three games in hand on the league leaders).
Sundowns had to work hard for their victory, as they were 1-0 down at the break (Sede Dion gave the hosts a surprise lead), but second-half strikes from Marcelo Allende, Lucas Ribeiro and Iqraam Rayners ensured that they claimed the full three points on offer.
‘Downs also survived a late scare when goalkeeper Dennis Onyango was sent off and Thapelo Morena donned the gloves, as the Tshwane side had used up all five of their substitutions.
Elsewhere on Wednesday, Sekhukhune United and AmaZulu played out a six-goal thriller at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium which ended 4-2 in favour of the hosts.
Andy Boyeli, Keletso Makgalwa and a late double from Linda Mntambo accounted for the Babina Noko goals, while Usuthu netted via Etiosa Ighodaro and Elmo Kambindu.