Mamelodi Sundowns maintained their unbeaten run under coach Miguel Cardoso with a narrow 1-0 victory over AmaZulu.
The game, played on Tuesday afternoon at Moses Mabhida Stadium, provided Sundowns with three valuable points, a fitting gift ahead of Christmas Day.
The game's only goal came in the referee's optional time through Iqraam Rayners, who continues to shine in attack.
Despite the victory, it was not a particularly inspiring performance, as both sides delivered a lacklustre display.
Sundowns controlled possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances, registering just three shots on target.
Captain Ronwen Williams received a red card, adding a dramatic twist to an otherwise subdued encounter.
AmaZulu, meanwhile, offered little threat to the visitors and failed to test their defence meaningfully.
The loss leaves Usuthu with plenty of work to do if they are to climb out of their current challenging position on the table.
While Sundowns secured the win, their lack of attacking sharpness will be a concern moving forward.