Mamelodi Sundowns moved to within four points of Absa Premiership leaders Kaizer Chiefs after claiming a 1-0 win over Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium on Wednesday evening, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

The Brazilians got off to the perfect start and managed to break the deadlock after nine minutes when Themba Zwane slotted the ball home after great interplay between him and Sibusiso Vilakazi.

Stellies had a chance to level matters in the 21st minute, but Ashley Du Preez failed to direct his header on target.

Mosimane was forced into making a change in the 25th minute when Sphelele Mkhulise was forced off the field through injury and subsequently replaced by Lebogang Maboe.

The home side had another huge chance to equalise in the 35th minute, but Ovidy Karuru’s header sailed over the crossbar from close range.

Sundowns managed to hold on to their lead as the game went into half time.

Mosimane opted to bring on a fresh pair of legs early in the second half when Lyle Lakay came on to replace Sirino, while Stellies brought on Iqraam Rayners in place of Du Preez four minutes later.

Stellenbosch continued to press forward in search of an equaliser and should have found the back of the net in the 70th minute when Ryan Moon stepped up Karuru, but the Zimbabwean midfielder volleyed his effort wide of goal.

After using all their substitutes, Sundowns finished the final 10 minutes with 10 men after Langerman was forced off the field through injury.

However, Sundowns managed to hold on to their lead over Stellies until the final whistle to snatch all three points away from home.