Mamelodi Sundowns strengthened their position in the Betway Premiership title race with a 2–0 victory over Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday night.
The Brazilians were made to work for the three points, with Milford showing plenty of attacking intent and creating several promising opportunities throughout the encounter.
Ronwen Williams was instrumental in keeping Sundowns in control during the opening stages, producing crucial saves to deny the visitors and preserve his side’s clean sheet.
Sundowns eventually found the breakthrough in first-half stoppage time. Igraam Rayners struck in the 45+2nd minute to give the hosts a 1–0 advantage heading into the interval.
Milford responded strongly after the restart and continued to put pressure on the Sundowns defence as they searched for an equaliser. Williams was once again called into action, making important interventions to keep the visitors from finding a way back into the contest.
Sundowns made a series of changes as they looked to regain control, with Tebogo Mokoena replacing Bathusi Aubaas before Thapelo Morena came on for Zuko Mudunyelwa. Cassius Mailula and Themba Zwane were also introduced.
The changes eventually paid dividends when Van Wyk doubled Sundowns’ lead after being set up by Mailula, putting the hosts firmly in command.
The Brazilians controlled the closing stages to see out the 2–0 victory and secure another valuable three points.
Williams’ decisive saves and Sundowns’ clinical finishing ultimately proved the difference as the home side maintained their strong start to the campaign.
The result leaves Sundowns second on the league table with 13 points, while Milford FC remain fifth.
Sundowns will now turn their attention to their next league fixture, an away encounter against Golden Arrows at King Zwelithini Stadium in KwaZulu-Natal. Milford, meanwhile, will face Chippa United in their next outing.