Mamelodi Sundowns extended their lead at the top of the Betway Premiership to 12 points after a dominant 4-1 victory over ten-man TS Galaxy on Saturday evening.
Jody February made his first league start in goal for Sundowns, replacing the suspended Denis Onyango, as Ronwen Williams remained sidelined due to injury.
Sundowns started strongly, taking the lead early when Iqraam Rayners headed a lofted ball into the path of Peter Shalulile, who scored from close range.
They quickly doubled their advantage just seven minutes later when Marcelo Allende set up Rayners, who skillfully turned his defender in the box before netting his eighth league goal of the season.
However, TS Galaxy responded swiftly. Sphiwe Prince Mahlangu broke through on goal from a through-ball, rounded February, and slotted the ball into the empty net, narrowing the deficit.
Despite Galaxy pulling a goal back, Sundowns continued to control the game. Galaxy's challenge became significantly harder in the 25th minute when Victor Letsoalo received a straight red card for a studs-up tackle on Bathusi Aubaas.
SUNDOWNS SUFFERED AUBAAS SETBACK
Aubaas was injured in the challenge and had to be replaced by Teboho Mokoena.
Before halftime, Sundowns increased their lead once more.
Jayden Adams scored his third goal of the season with a powerful strike in the box after Peter Shalulile's initial shot was blocked.
The Tshwane giants continued their dominance into the second half, quickly extending their lead three minutes after the break.
Rayners secured his second goal of the match, capitalizing on a well-placed pass from Thapelo Morena to make it 4-0.
With another match approaching on Wednesday, coach Cardoso made substitutions in the final 30 minutes, bringing in Arthur Sales, Kutlwano Lethaku, and Kobamelo Kodisang for Lucas Ribeiro, Allende, and Rayners.
The remainder of the game proceeded at a more relaxed pace, with Sundowns comfortably controlling the tempo and securing a decisive victory.
This win re-established Sundowns' 12-point advantage over Orlando Pirates in the league standings.
