Mamelodi Sundowns failed to extend their lead at the top of the DStv Premiership standings after suffering a 2-1 defeat by Maritzburg United at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday evening.

The Brazilians made two changes to their side that defeated TS Galaxy mid-week as Rushine De Reuck and Sphelele Mkhulise were named in the starting lineup.

Sundowns got off to a great start as they looked to grab an early lead in the opening exchanges.

The visitors had two chances in quick succession in the 12th minute when Peter Shalulile and Lesedi Kapinga forced a save from United keeper Marcel Engelhardt.

Sundowns had a chance to take the lead four minutes later when Lyle Lakay found space on the left before unleashing a low shot just wide of the upright.

The Tshwane giants eventually took the lead in the 37th minute when Shalulile slotted the ball home after latching on to a cross from Haashim Domingo.

The Team of Choice managed to draw the game level at 1-1 in the 41st minute through an equalising goal from Alfred Ndengane as the game went into the break on level terms.

Sundowns picked up where they left off and nearly took the lead early in the second half when Kapinga made his way into the box and beat the keeper, only to see his shot cleared off the line.

Allie came to his side’s rescue in the 53rd minute when he made a goalline clearance to deny Shalulile after some great interplay with Kapinga.

Sundowns opted to bring on fresh legs in the 66th minute when they made a triple substitution with Themba Zwane, Thabiso Kutumela and Neo Maema replacing Mudau, Domingo and Kapinga, respectively.

The visitors were awarded a penalty in the 83rd minute following a handball inside the box. Zwane stepped up but saw his spot kick saved by the United keeper.

Maritzburg were then awarded a penalty of their own deep into stoppage time. Amadou Soukouna stepped up and made no mistake from the spot kick to hand his side the lead.

The Team of Choice managed to hold on to the lead until the final whistle to hand Sundowns a rare defeat and snatch all three points on home soil.