Mamelodi Sundowns' player ratings in win against Orlando Pirates - Mailula shines again

11:18 AM EST 2/4/23

Masandawana continued their excellent run in the Premier Soccer League with 15th successive win against Bucs.

Cassius Mailula's early strike was all Mamelodi Sundowns needed to silence thousands of home fans who had flocked the Orlando Stadium to support Orlando Pirates.

Despite a spirited second half by the Sea Robbers, the Premier Soccer League defending champions showed encouraging resilience at the back to complete a double against the Soweto heavyweights.

The victory was the Brazilian's 15th in a row, further underlining their quality in South African top flight football.

This is how Downs rated.

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Ronwen Williams 7/10

The in-form shot-stopper was rarely troubled and comfortably dealt with what was thrown in his path. Pulled two fantastic saves to keep his 14th clean sheet of the season.
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Thapelo Morena 6/10

He was composed despite pressure from the home team and Monnapule Saleng. Morena was also available during buildups and effectively covered the centre-backs.
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Khuliso Mudau 6/10

Mudau did his best to keep the experienced Deon Hotto at bay. Sometimes looked nervous when subjected under pressure but did just fine to help his team collect a 15th consecutive win in the league.
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Grant Kekana 7/10

Tough assignment for the centre-back to ensure former teammate Kermit Erasmus did not score. Dealt with aerial duels well.
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Mothobi Mvala 6/10

The tough-tackling defender complemented Kekana well and ensured Masandawana extended their lead at the top.
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Teboho Mokoena 5/10

Was sometimes caught out of position by the creative Pirates players. He, however, made some crucial challenges to help the Champions complete a double.
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Themba Zwane 7/10

His electric and determined start led to the first goal. Would have had more assists or even a goal but made poor decisions in the final third.
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Siphelele Mkhulise 6/10

His determination saw Downs win possession in the final third before Zwane set up Mailula for the lone goal. Covered his teammates in the department well when exposed before being subbed.
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Neo Maema 6/10

Drove forward with intent when on the ball and his supply was on point. Unlucky not to have made an assist.
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Cassius Mailula 8/10

Someone can easily forget Mailula is just 21 years old owing to his exploits. His direct approach was at times too much for the defenders. Showed great composure to score in front of thousands of Pirates' fans.
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Peter Shalulile 5/10

Not back to his 100 percent best -after injury, but still managed to create some decent chances.
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Aubrey Modiba - 5/10

Introduced with 25 minutes to go and ensured he broke all the dangerous attacks by the hosts.
Sipho Mbule - 6/10

Took over from Mkhulise in the midfield and laid deep to ensure the back four were well covered.
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Sifiso Ngobeni N/A

Replaced the tiring Morena and managed to ensure he clears the danger.
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Jerome Karelse N/A

Had little time to make an impact.
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Bradley Ralani

Was introduced with three minutes to go.