Ex- Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Calvin Marlin has backed the former side to clinch the Premier Soccer League (PSL) title.
Marlin stated that Sundowns showed character after they were reduced to 10 players against Bidvest Wits on Saturday evening where they secured a 1-1 draw at the Bidvest Stadium.
“Yeah the race remains open in my view because Sundowns have got two games in hand. It was a good result for them against Wits and I am sure winning two matches will take them to the top,” Marlin told Goal.
The reigning PSL champions were dealt a massive blow when defender Wayne Arendse was red carded after pulling Wits striker Fagrie Lakay in the first half.
Sundowns slipped down to third place on the league standings - two points behind the leaders, Wits, but the former have two games in hand.
“I am sure they are relieved because they did not lose the points against Wits and they can win two games as I said, they will be on top,” he said.
Phakamani Mahlambi handed Sundowns the lead against Wits, who equalized through Gift Motupa following a mistake by the visitors' defence.
“Sundowns will make mistakes because they usually play from the back and they do take risks with their centre backs,” noted the retired keeper.
“Yes, they conceded through an error against Polokwane during the week and I don’t see any reason to panic for them because they are not losing their games,” said the 42-year-old.
Orlando Pirates leapfrogged Sundowns into second place after securing a 4-1 win over AmaZulu FC on Saturday night.
“Yes, that’s the interesting thing about the league. It is always nice to see that there are three or four teams competing for the title,” continued the Port Elizabeth-born legend.
“It’s not good to see the same team dominating and it was a good win for Pirates because they were unlucky against SuperSport (United) during the week. They took their chances on Saturday and it’s easy to win when you take your chances,” he reacted.
“Yes, that’s the challenge for both Wits and Pirates, their games are getting fewer and they will hope to go on a winning run because Sundowns have games in hand,” he added.
“Nobody is guaranteed a three-match winning run and that is why I think they will want to see other teams to hold Sundowns,” said the former Mpumalanga Black Aces coach.
“They will hope for favours from the other teams, but I think Sundowns are the favourites to win this one. I think they can do well as we head to the finish line unless they are disrupted by their Caf Champions League programme, the travelling and injuries,” he noted.
“But looking at the games and their points, I am convinced they can go all the way and retain their trophy,” he concluded.
