A much changed Mamelodi Sundowns, on and off the bench, tore the home side Maritzburg United apart, and showed no signs of a hangover from their recent mini slump.
With Rhulani Mokwena taking over the head coach role, and with five changes to the starting line up from Saturdays MTN8 loss to Orlando Pirates, Downs cruised to a 5-0 victory over the out-of-sorts Maritzburg United. A new look Sundowns where Madau, Modiba, Mvala, Zwane and Sirino all made way for Morena, Lebusa, Maema, Domingo and Mailula in the starting line up, and what a difference it made.
Two goals each from Domingo and Mailula and one from Morena did the damage for Downs. Morena also assisted in two of the goals, and deservedly won the man of the match award.
The possession stats, 66% to Downs versus 34% to Maritzburg, almost double the amount of the ball, tells the story. In fact, it looked at one stage as if Downs could score at will, and this game will be a clear warning to the PSL that Sundowns are back to their best. Maritzburg United on the other hand, are looking like they are going to fight a relegation battle this season.
