Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has heaped praise on his side after they extended their unbeaten run to 40 games following their win over AmaZulu.

The Brazilians returned to winning ways in the DStv Premiership following their comfortable 3-0 win over Usuthu thanks to a hat-trick from Lucas Ribeiro Costa at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The win sees Sundowns extend their league at the top of the table to 12 points with 45 points from 17 matches.

Mokwena was delighted with the win and was pleased with his side showing patience to ultimately win the match.

“Let’s congratulate Mamelodi Sundowns, congratulate the fans, a great turnout for a Tuesday fixture and congratulate the football club, everybody, the players, the technical team, great performance,” Mokwena told SuperSport TV after the game.

“First-half I thought we played very well, I thought the performance was just missing a goal. We created a lot of chances also, the build-ups were good, we had a good occupation of the pitch and we were very patient, I liked that.

“I like it when we’re patient and we don’t rush things but closer to the box you need another touch, especially when they go man-marking you know.”

He added: “But the second-half we improved a little bit, received the balls in the pockets, influencing the game a little bit closer to the box.

“Good counter-pressing to re-generate chances and so a great effort from the players, very proud of them. I love this team and this group of players has a very special place in my heart. So congratulations to the team, to the players and everybody at the football club.

Photo by Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix