Downs top the log, Ajax claim first win

Football | Absa Premiership

Round 7 of the Absa Premiership saw Mamelodi Sundowns usurp Tshwane rivals SuperSport United at the top of the log, while Ajax Cape Town claimed their first win of the season to leave CAF Champions League finalists Orlando Pirates, who have played just two league games, in last place on the standings.
Mamelodi Sundowns racked up the biggest win of the Absa Premiership season so far, crushing AmaZulu 7-1 on Tuesday thanks in the main to a brace apiece from Katlego Mashego and Katlego Mphela. It retained the Brazilians’ unbeaten record in the league this season and brought Usuthu’s good away form to a shuddering halt.


In Rustenburg, Platinum Stars twice gave away a lead to draw 2-2 with Mpumalanga Black Aces. Henrico Botes scored Dikwena’s second goal of the match and in the process became the club’s all-time leading scorer in top flight football with 28 strikes to his name, eclipsing the previous record held by Dingane Masanabo.
Ernst Middendorp’s debut as Bloemfontein Celtic manager almost ended in defeat, but debutant Frank Mhango scored a late equaliser to salvage a 2-2 draw against Moroka Swallows. A double from the ageless Siyabonga Nomvethe almost handed the Birds a priceless away win, but Mhango’s late intervention ensured the points were shared.

Wednesday’s action saw SuperSport join Sundowns at the top of the log on 14 points thanks to a 1-0 win away to Maritzburg United, who had their first game with Clinton Larsen in charge. The victory, secured by a late David Mathebula strike, wasn’t enough for Matsatsantsa to be top of the pile thanks to the Brazilians’ goal difference being boosted by the big win the day before.
An early goal from Mozambican Telinho secured a 1-0 win for Ajax Cape Town in the Mother City – their first three pointer of the season. The Urban Warriors will be relieved at having moved out of the relegation zone for almost the first time this season.
In Johannesburg, Bidvest Wits had a frustrating evening against newcomers Polokwane City in a match which ended in a goalless draw. The Clever Boys Robin Ngalande had the best chance early on, finding the woodwork with a headed effort at goal.