Junior Mendieta's brilliant moment steers Mamelodi Sundowns to fifth consecutive PSL win

Junior Mendieta's singular moment of brilliance was the difference-maker, as Mamelodi Sundowns edged past Richards Bay 1-0 in a DStv Premiership clash at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Tuesday.

In the wake of this victory, Masandawana marked their fifth successive league conquest and amassed a solid 15 points. Sitting majestically atop the log standings, they are now in fierce pursuit of an unparalleled seventh consecutive title.

Sundowns also revelled in a groundbreaking achievement, clinching victory in their first five league matches - a feat previously unwritten in their storied history.

Despite the backdrop of Sundowns' announcement regarding a string of injuries to key players - Mosa Lebusa (calf), Rushin De Reuck (knee), Sifiso Ngobeni (ankle), Thapelo Morena (hamstring), Khuliso Mudau (hamstring), Siyanda Nyanga (shoulder), Thapelo Maseko (knee), Sphelele Mkhulise (ankle), Abubeker Nasir (ankle), Peter Shalulile (hamstring), and Gaston Sirino (ankle) - their performance on the field in KwaZulu-Natal remained unaffected, revealing a remarkable resilience and squad depth.

In the match’s opening moments, a mere span of ten minutes, Sundowns illuminated the field with a display that transcended the ordinary. Sundowns painted a masterful display on the field, capturing the lead with a blend of artistry and dynamic strength that captivated spectators.

Mthobi Mvala, who was named alongside six other Sundowns teammates in the preliminary 36-man Bafana Bafana squad for next month’s friendlies against Namibia and DR Congo, darted forward from deep, left his mark and sliced a ball through Richards Bay’s midfield to find Mendieta.

The former Stellenbosch FC star, in his first season at Masandawana, superbly backheeled the ball