Mamelodi Sundowns extended their lead in the DStv Premiership to six points following a convincing 2-1 win over relegation threatened Chippa United at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium.
The Brazilians responded positively after losing their last group game in the CAF Champions League, a disappointing 2-0 defeat to CR Belouizdad that saw their 28-game unbeaten run come to an end.
However, it was back to familiar winning ways on domestic soil. Themba Zwane scored from the spot after just 16 minutes of play to put Sundowns ahead and that goal sparked the game into life. It was a shot in the arm for the Chilli Boys who started the game well but the visitors bossed the game from that moment.
Chippa player Thabiso Lebitso was the first player to receive a yellow card in the 26th minute after a hard tackle on goalscorer Zwane.
In the quest to get the equaliser before the break, the Chilli Boys made their first substitution and Luyolo Nomandela was replaced by Sizwe Mdlinzo.
In the added minute of the first half, Ismail Watenga denied Chippa from levelling the scores, saving Chidi’s goal bound effort as the first half ended in favour of the visitors.
Sundowns came out looking to double their lead immediately in the second half. Zwane missed a glorious chance in the 48th minute.
Chippa then capitalized on the fluffed chance by Zwane and leveled matters in the 49th minute, with Augustine Kwem grabbing the equalizer.
The Sisa Dukashe Stadium came back alive with both teams trying to score.
Minutes later, Lyle almost restored Sundowns lewd with a dipping free-kick but his effort was not enough. Onyango had to bring his experience to save a long range shot from Kwem and denied the hosts the opportunity to complete a rare comeback.
Shaluille became the hero of the day for the Brazilians as he netted the winner in the 74th minute after. It continues a prolific season for the forward who bagged his ninth league goal of the season
With the win, Sundowns have now extended their unbeaten run in the DStv Premiership to 20 games. They remain unbeaten at it remains a question of if anyone can stop them at the moment.
As it stands, they top the table with 46 points from 20 games, six points ahead of second place Amazulu.
Up next for Sundowns is a big derby clash against Orlando Pirates for the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup.