Mamelodi Sundowns kept pace with Betway Premiership leaders Orlando Pirates by securing a professional 2-0 victory over newly promoted Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday night.
Goals from Iqraam Rayners and Antonio van Wyk, both assisted by Aubrey Modiba, moved the Brazilians level on 13 points with the defending champions after five matches. Pirates remain top on superior goal difference following their emphatic 4-0 win over Kruger United the previous evening.
Hard-fought contest
Milford, making a solid early impression in the top flight, matched Sundowns for large spells and created several dangerous moments. The visitors came closest in the first half when Thabang Mabena forced a strong save from Ronwen Williams.
Sundowns broke the deadlock deep into first-half stoppage time. Modiba dispossessed Vusumuzi Mthabela in a dangerous area and teed up Rayners, who finished from close range for his first league goal of the season (45+2').
Second-half control
Coach Miguel Cardoso introduced Teboho Mokoena at the break, and the midfielder helped Sundowns gain greater control. The home side increased the pressure as Milford tired.
The decisive second goal arrived in the 76th minute. Modiba again provided the assist, threading a precise pass through for van Wyk, who composed himself and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Siphamandla Hleza.
Sundowns managed the closing stages comfortably to claim the three points and extend their strong start to the campaign (four wins and one draw).
Table implications
The result leaves both Pirates and Sundowns on 13 points. Kaizer Chiefs sit third on eight points from four games. Milford drop to fifth with seven points from five matches after a competitive showing against one of the league's strongest sides.
Wednesday's solitary fixture formed part of a busy midweek for the Betway Premiership. Attention now turns to Friday's double-header featuring Marumo Gallants vs Polokwane City and Richards Bay vs AmaZulu, before a full weekend of action.