Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane has highlighted the performance of young Sphelele Mkhulise after his Man of the Match performance against AmaZulu.

The defending Absa Premiership champions battled to a tight 1-0 win over Usuthu at Loftus on Tuesday evening, as an early goal from Jose Ali Meza fired Downs within seven points of Kaizer Chiefs at the top of the table. Chiefs are now set to take on Stellenbosch on Wednesday.

Meza may have got the goal but it was the young Mkhulise who caught the eye, as he helped dictate the game and rightfully earned the Man of the Match accolade.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the game, Mosimane singled out the midfielder for special praise but also admitted that he will need to manage the youngster.

‘We just took the three points and went home. We still dominated the game to be honest. We played to win, they put a little bit of pressure the last ten minutes … it’s normal, they went for everything,’ said Mosimane.

‘So, I’m happy with all the guys who played. Young Mkhulise, he’s growing progressively. He is unbelievable. We need to manage him. Don’t get too excited.

‘He’s coming up very well. What can I say, I’m happy we scored the goal, we fought for it. They could’ve scored also, let’s be honest. Let’s give them credit.’