Mamelodi Sundowns kept pace with Orlando Pirates at the top of the Betway Premiership after securing a 2-0 victory over PSL newcomers Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night.
The result moved the Brazilians onto 13 points from their opening five league matches, drawing them level with Pirates. However, the Buccaneers remain top thanks to their superior goal difference.
Miguel Cardoso’s side entered the match under pressure to respond after Pirates had strengthened their position at the summit with a convincing 4-0 victory over Kruger United.
RAYNERS BREAKS THE DEADLOCK
Sundowns were expected to dominate against Milford, but the visitors showed plenty of determination and competed well during the opening stages.
Both teams created opportunities in the first half, although neither could find the breakthrough early on.
That changed shortly before the interval.
Aubrey Modiba won possession just outside the Milford penalty area before finding Iqraam Rayners. The striker made no mistake, calmly finishing to give Sundowns a 1-0 advantage heading into half-time.
Rayners’ goal gave the home side the platform they needed to control the second half.
VAN WYK SEALS THE THREE POINTS
Milford continued to battle, but Sundowns eventually found the decisive second goal late in the match.
Antonio van Wyk doubled the Brazilians’ advantage with his first league goal of the season, putting the result beyond doubt and securing another important three points for Cardoso’s team.
The victory means Sundowns have now matched Pirates’ 13-point tally after five matches.
While Pirates remain first on goal difference, Sundowns have ensured that the early title race is already taking shape at the top of the table.
SUNDOWNS KEEP THE PRESSURE ON PIRATES
With both giants sitting on 13 points, the margin for error at the summit is already becoming smaller.
Pirates have made an impressive start to the campaign, but Sundowns’ response against Milford ensures they remain firmly in the race.
For Cardoso, the immediate priority will be maintaining momentum as Sundowns look to turn their strong start into another serious title challenge.
Milford, meanwhile, can take encouragement from their performance despite leaving Tshwane without a point.
STARTING LINE-UPS
Mamelodi Sundowns XI: Williams, Mdunyelwa, Khoza, Kekana, Modiba, B. Mokoena, Aubaas, Allende, Van Wyk, Matthews, Rayners.
Subs: Goss, Morena, Mvala, Basadien, Mokoena, Zwane, Ndlovu, Mailula, Leon.
Milford FC XI: Hleza, Bhengu, Mthabela, Mdluli, Cele, Mthethwa, Nomandela, Mabena, Mbunga, Sigomoshe, Ndlabi.
Subs: Nkosi, Siyaya, Khwana, Zikakayo, Chabanhu, Joyi, Gxakoshe, Radebe, Masilela.
