Mamelodi Sundowns have moved to the top spot in the Betway Premiership following a convincing 4-1 victory over Richards Bay at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday evening.

The win came after a tough week for Sundowns, who lost 1-0 to Golden Arrows, coached by their former boss Manqoba Mngqithi, on Wednesday.

Coach Miguel Cardoso made several changes to the team that started against Arrows, giving new signing Nuno Santos his first start.

The Brazilians began the game on a high note, creating many chances in the early minutes. Their hard work paid off in the 15th minute when Tashreeq Matthews opened the scoring.

Sundowns continued to dominate, finding the second goal in the 26th minute through Malibongwe Khoza, who capitalized on a blocked shot from Marcelo Allende.

However, the Natal Rich Boyz pulled one back three minutes later through Gabadinho Mhango, after Khoza made a mistake at the back.

But Sundowns restored their two-goal lead just before halftime, with Iqraam Rayners scoring a penalty after a foul by Lindokuhle Zikhali on Khuliso Mudau.

In the second half, Sundowns came out strong, creating many chances. Their efforts paid off in the 62nd minute when Tashreeq Matthews scored his second goal of the match, tapping in a rebound from Rayners’ shot that hit the crossbar.

Despite introducing four changes, including Bennet Mokoena, Thapelo Maseko, Fawaz Basadien, Peter Shalulile, and Siphelele Mkhulise, Sundowns couldn’t find another goal, and the game ended 4-1.

The win takes Sundowns to 21 points, one point ahead of Sekhukhune United, who dropped points after losing to Polokwane City on Saturday.

Sundowns will now take a break in the Betway Premiership, with their next game coming up against Marumo Gallants in the round of 16 of the Carling Knockout at Lucas Moripe Stadium next Saturday.