Sundowns Held To A Draw By Gallants

Mamelodi Sundowns missed a chance to return to the top of the Betway Premiership after playing out a disappointing 1-1 draw against Marumo Gallants at Dr Molemela Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Instead, Sundowns move to second in the table with 15 points after seven matches, one behind log leaders Sekhukhune United, who went top on Tuesday after beating Kaizer Chiefs.

Despite coming into the game on the back of a 3-0 win over Magesi over the weekend, Sundowns were unable to secure all three points against Gallants, who had not played since before the FIFA international break.

The Brazilians started the game strongly, creating numerous scoring opportunities in the first 15 minutes, but were unable to capitalize on their chances.

Sundowns almost took the lead in the 25th minute through Teboho Mokoena, whose shot from outside the box was saved by Gallants’ goalkeeper, Washington Arubi.

However, just three minutes later, Iqraam Rayners was unmarked to score with a header, assisted by Chilean midfielder Marcello Allende, to give Sundowns the lead.

Gallants responded well and equalized in the 35th minute after Phillip Ndlondlo forced Keanu Cupido to score an own goal.

Mokoena had another chance to give Sundowns the lead on the stroke of halftime, but Arubi was once again equal to the task, and the first half ended 1-1.

In the second half, coach Miguel Cardoso made two early changes, introducing Aubrey Modiba and Tashreeq Matthews in place of Devine Lunga and Rayners.

The introduction of the duo had a significant impact on Sundowns’ attack, as they created many chances in the first 15 minutes of the second half but failed to convert them into goals.

Cardoso made another substitution in the 62nd minute, introducing youngster Kutlwano Letlhaku to strengthen his attack.

Eight minutes later, Sundowns made another notable substitution, introducing Khuliso Mudau, who was playing his first game of the season after a stand-off with the club.

Despite these changes, Gallants were able to deal with the challenges posed by Sundowns, and even the introduction of experienced striker Lebo Mothiba failed to yield a winner for the Brazilians.

The Brazilians will look to get back to winning ways when they face Durban City at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.