Mamelodi Sundowns close in on Kaizer Chiefs as Peter Shalulile equals PSL record in win over Magesi FC and boost Masandawana morale ahead of MTN8 clash against Orlando Pirates

Mamelodi Sundowns managed a hard-fought 2-0 Premier Soccer League win over Magesi FC in a Wednesday game held at Seshego Stadium.

The Brazilians were frustrated for most of the game but were able to collect three points courtesy of late goals. 

Meanwhile, surprisingly, it is Magesi that started the game on a higher tempo, applying pressure on Sundowns. As the visitors tried to contain the attacking home side, Grant Kekana received an early booking, just showing how Downs desperately tried to keep Magesi at bay.

Ronwen Williams was forced to make a save in the seventh minute; the Bafana goalkeeper read well what Thabang Sibanyoni was about to do. The Magesi forward headed from the right, but Williams was alert to deny him by tipping the ball over for a corner.

Wonderboy Makhubu almost grabbed an opener after collecting a rebound, but Downs' defence regrouped fast to block the forward's attempted hit from close range in the 16th minute. 

Makhubu again had a chance in the 24th minute to score, but he sent his effort off target from a good goalscoring position.

Magesi were forced to make a change in the 40th minute when Tshepo Makgoga was injured and Lehlogonolo Mokone was thrown into action.

After a goalless draw in the first half, Sundowns looked hungrier when the second half began and almost broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute. Fawaaz Basadien did well to find Adams, but the midfielder could not score, wasting a very close chance. 

Basadien and Adams combined again in the 74th minute, and this time round, the Bafana teammates delivered for Sundowns. The fullback delivered a precise corner kick that Adams connected well to find the back of the net and break the deadlock.

After breaking the deadlock, Sundowns were rejuvenated and doubled their lead in the 87th minute when Shalulile scored. 

It was the Namibia international's 129th for a top-flight club, equalling Siyabonga Nomvethe as the all-time top scorer in the PSL era.

The win has taken the Tshwane giants to the third position with seven points, just two points behind second-placed Kaizer Chiefs. Magesi, who were reduced to 10 men when Lehlohonolo Mtshali was shown a second yellow card, are 11th with two points.

Adams delivered the magic touch that Downs desperately needed. After the PSL heavyweights were frustrated for over 70 minutes, it was Adams who came up with the golden touch against the opponent.  

His opener gave Sundowns the needed energy, and they went ahead to score the second.  

Wonderboy Makhubu was a lively threat against Sundowns' backline, especially in the first half, but all his effort came to nothing as his side fell in the end.  

Sundowns' next challenges are bigger; they are set to face Orlando Pirates for the MTN8 second-leg semi-final clash on Saturday after a one-all draw in the last leg. Thereafter, the Brazilians will return for a league clash against the unbeaten Kaizer Chiefs on August 27.

Magesi will be hosted by Golden Arrows on August 27.