MTN8: Rayners at the double as Sundowns thrash Richards Bay to book semi-final ticket

Mamelodi Sundowns have joined Stellenbosch FC, Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 semi-final following their 4-0 thrashing of Richards Bay on Sunday.

In what was their first match since their Club World Cup in June, Sundowns did not show any signs of rustiness as they rolled over Richards Bay with the match won in the first half after they went two goals to the good.

Iqraam Rayners broke the deadlock after nine minutes when he headed in Marcelo Allende’s corner after getting free off his markers.

Rayners completes his double

Sundowns added the second on the stroke of halftime through an own goal. Against the run of play, Teboho Mokoena’s cross was directed into the net by Simphiwe Mcineka in an attempt to clear it and keep it away for the on-rushing Rayners.

There was no denying Rayners, however, in the second half as he scored his second when Arthur Sales found him on his bike with a sublime pass and he made no mistakes from close range.

Siyabonga Mabena completed the rout when he fired home from the edge of the box, the ball getting in via a wicked deflection.

The victory completes the set as Sundowns will now wat to know who they play in the semi-final when the draw is conducted on Sunday.