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Five talking points as Sundowns continue to stutter

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Pitso Mosimane, coach of Mamelodi Sundowns
  • Post published:August 22, 2020

Mamelodi Sundowns are now without a win in four games since the restart after another faltering performance as they drew 2-2 with Maritzburg United on Friday evening, missing the chance to cut Kaizer Chiefs’ lead to three points at the top of the Absa Premiership table. Soccer Club writer DEAN WORKMAN highlights five main talking points from the game.

Sundowns opened the scoring through Hlompho Kekana in the 25th minute as the Downs captain saw his shot deflect off Rushine de Reuck before hitting the back of the net.

The Team of Choice, though, quickly hit back as De Reuck was again involved, but this time at the other end of the field poking home his shot after the Brazilians failed to deal with an in-swinging free kick.

Pitso Mosimane’s men regained their lead just after the break as Ricardo Nacimento converted from the spot after Nazeer Alli handled in the Maritzburg box.

Again, Eric Tinkler’s men hit back in quick fashion as Thabiso Kutumela let loose from outside the box and found Dennis Onyango’s bottom corner.

A frantic finish to the game had both teams missing big chances while Nascimento was sent off with 20 minutes to play for a barge off the ball on Kutumela.

The five main talking points from the game:

1) Pitso rings changes but no result

Pitso Mosimane made several changes to his side with Anele Ngcongca, Andile Jalie and Motjeka Madisha all returning, while academy graduate Promise Mkhuma was handed a debut. Mosimane was looking to freshen up his side after two draws and a loss in the league since the restart but, with a number of players having played games in a short period of time, the decision ultimately didn’t have the desired effect.

2) Nasciemento, Jali to miss next game

After his late red card, central defender Nascimento will now be suspended for the games against Golden Arrows and the mega clash with Kaizer Chiefs. This will come as a big blow to Downs as the Brazilian is often key the heart of their defence.

Jali also picked up a late yellow which will have him miss the Arrows game – undoubtedly another blow for a squad already stretched.

3) Ngcongca horror miss could prove costly

With 70 minutes gone, Ngcongca had a golden chance to put his side ahead. But he somehow missed an open goal after he got on the end of Lakay’s cross – the ball immediately went up to the other end and Nascimento took Kutumela out off the ball resulting in his send-off.

If the Downs defender slotted home the opportunity, they would likely gone on to win but he missed the target when it looked easier to score.

4) Slow-burner Sundowns struggling since restart

Sundowns are historically slow starters with it taking a while for them to build up some steam. This has been apparent since the restart with a number of games squeezed into a small space – Sundowns and Pitso are struggling to find their rhythm.

5) Chiefs still hold advantage

This title race may be producing more twists and turns with every game, but Chiefs still hold the advantage as they sit five points clear. Ernst Middendorp’s men have also shown frailties – with their mid-week loss to Bloemfontein Celtic – but with the teams set to meet next Thursday we are nearing a grandstand conclusion.