Mamelodi Sundowns fight back to outwit Durban City to widen gap between them and Kaizer Chiefs & close in on PSL log leaders Sekhukhune United

Mamelodi Sundowns claimed a 3-1 hard-fought Premier Soccer League win over Durban City in a game held at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

After dropping points in their last game against Gallants in a 1-1 draw, the Brazilians emerged winners against Durban City, who scored first in Pretoria. 

Sundowns were stunned in the 12th minute when unmarked Joslin Kamatuka connected to a corner delivery by Haashim Domingo and headed past Ronwen Williams. 

Durban City's lead did not last long, though, as Bafana Ba Style equalised in the 21st minute when Marcelo Allende scored. The Chilean received the ball inside the box, turned to his left, and slotted the ball into the bottom corner for Sundowns' goal.

The Tshwane giants took the lead in the 35th minute when Tashreeq Matthews struck after making his way past several Durban City defenders.

The visitors had a chance to equalise in the 43rd minute when they were awarded a penalty following a foul on Bokang Mokwena. However, Kamatuka's penalty was saved by Williams.

Masandawana extended their lead when Bafana Bafana forward Iqraam Rayners received a pass from Kutlwano Letlhaku and slotted past Darren Keet in the 66th minute.

Sundowns are now just a point behind Babina Noko, although they have played one more game. The gap between the Brazilians and Chiefs, who are third, has now widened to five points, although the Glamour Boys have two games in hand.

In addition to the goal he scored to get Sundowns back into the game, Allende was an imposing figure in midfield.

He did well to cushion the backline and was also available when the team was attacking; his presence up front gave the home side the necessary numbers to overwhelm Durban City.  

Kamatuka wasted a chance that would have given Durban City a lifeline in the game when he could not successfully convert the first-half penalty. 

Apart from letting down the team, he also missed a chance to earn his brace.

Downs will be back in PSL action on September 24 when they will visit Golden Arrows, while Durban City will host Stellenbosch on the same day.