A brace by Percy Tau was enough to inspire Mamelodi Sundowns to a 4-1 victory over Free State Stars at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.

The Brazilians dominated the opening exchanges of the match with the likes of  Percy Tau and Khama Biliat looking threatening in attack for Sundowns.

Meanwhile, Ea Lla Koto struggled to win possession of the ball whenever they were in possession of the ball.

Stars goalkeeper Thela Ngobeni came to his side’s rescue in the 33 minute when he produced a fine save to deny Keagan Dolly from close range.

Moments later, Stars nearly found the opener but could only managed to hit the crossbar with Downs goalkeeper Denis Onyango well beaten.

Sundowns broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute when Leonardo Castro set up Billiat, who slotted the ball into the back of the net from close range.

However, a minute later and Stars levelled matters when Sekotlong curled his effort into the top corner after being set up by Danny Venter to make it 1-1.

Sundowns restored their lead in the 57th minute as Tau rose well to put his headed effort past Ngobeni after a Tebogo Langerman cross.

The home side scored their third goal two minutes later when Dolly  played a one-two pass with Castro before firing his effort into the top corner.

The match was all but sealed when Sundowns added a fourth goal in the 79th minute when Tau beat his marker before calmly slotting the ball through Ngobeni’s legs to make it 4-1.

However, Pitso Mosimane’s side held onto their 4-1 lead until the final whistle as they walked away with all three points against Stars.

Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix