Kutlwano Letlhaku’s brace lifts Mamelodi Sundowns to victory over Polokwane City, as they edge closer to the top of the table

Matchday seven for Mamelodi Sundowns featured a highly anticipated clash with Polokwane City at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday. Sundowns sought redemption against the only team to have defeated them this season so far in the league.

Manqoba Mngqithi made a bold decision, with nine changes to his lineup; only Ronwen Williams and Peter Shalulile remained from the previous match.

The game started with a competitive midfield battle, yet much of the action took place on the wings, especially between Devine Lunga and Thabang Matuludi.

Sundowns' Kutlwano Letlhaku, making his first start of the season, opened the scoring in the 27th minute.

Despite Polokwane’s best efforts, goalkeeper Williams had a relatively calm half, as Hlayisi Chauke struggled to breach a solid defence led by Mosa Lebusa and Malibongwe Khoza

In the second half, Chauke nearly found an equalizer for Polokwane, but his header went just wide with only the net to beat.

Letlhaku continued his impressive form, almost netting a second before Polokwane’s keeper, Manuel Sampunga, made critical saves to keep the scoreline manageable.

However, Letlhaku would eventually secure his brace after Arthur Sales capitalised on a defensive error by Matuludi, notching his second assist of the night.

Sundowns continued pushing for a third goal, but Sampunga’s impressive form kept the scoreline at 2-0.

This victory brings Sundowns to within three points of Orlando Pirates, who lead with 21 points from seven games.

The Brazilians now set their sights on the Carling Knockout semi-final clash with Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein.

Kutlwano Letlhaku takes the nod as he made his first start for the season and scored a brace, repaying the faith shown by his coach as he is competing with some of the best in the league.

Polokwane City could not repeat the same performance that gave them three points at home against Sundowns. They could not take advantage of the nine changes made by the coach of Sundowns. They missed their coach Phuti Mohafe.

Sundowns turn their attention to Marumo Gallants as they will be battling it for a place in the final of the Carling Knockout, while Polokwane City have a break as they are out of the cup and will only play Cape Town City after the international break.