Staff Reporter.
@Backpagepix.
Mamelodi Sundowns maintained their unbeaten record in this season’s DStv Premiership by defeating Chippa United 2-1 at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium.
The win saw Masandawana set a new league record as they are now undefeated in 20 matches and they also opened a six-point lead at the top of the league standings, while relegation-threatened Chilli Boys remained 15th on the log.
Sundowns controlled the match from the first whistle and they fired the first warning through Peter Shalulile just four minutes into the encounter.
Themba Zwane set-up Shalulile, who turned well and before unleashing a thunderous shot that hit the crossbar after Chippa goalkeeper Ismail Watenga had blocked the ball.The visitors continued to probe for the opening goal and they were awarded a penalty after Aubrey Modiba was fouled in the box by Riaan Hanamub in the 15th minute.
Zwane made no mistake from the penalty spot as he beat Uganda international Watenga, who was making his debut in DStv Premiership, to hand Sundowns a well-deserved 1-0 lead.
Chippa interim coach Siyabulela Gwambi introduced former Sundowns winger Luyolo Nomandela, who made his official debut for the Chilli Boys just before half-time.
Both teams started the second-half brightly with Shalulile sending Zwane through on goal, but somehow the Bafana Bafana international hit the outside of the upright with only Watenga to beat.
Almost immediately at the other end, Gregory Damos played a through pass for Augustine Chidi Kwem, who beat Onyango with a low shot to make it 1-1 in the 49th minute.
The visitors managed to restore their lead when Shalulile headed home from close range with 16 minutes left to make it 2-1 to Sundowns after the hosts had failed to clear Modiba’s cross.
The Brazilians looked to extend their lead in the closing processings as Shalulile hit the upright with Watenga rooted to the ground and ultimately, the match ended in a 2-1 win in favour of Sundowns.