Mamelodi Sundowns scoring ratio excites Manqoba Mngqithi

Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners, Lucas Ribeiro and Sphelele Mkhulise were all on the scoresheet for the reigning champions, as they scored four for a third time in four matches.

Mngqithi gave his post-match analysis, highlighting the areas of improvement that he witnessed from their recent encounters.

"I think we started the game quite well, created some good openings, and we were fortunate to get that first goal, which I think opened the game up a little bit for us," said Mngqithi.

"Then they started with a high line, [from] which we managed to use the space behind them quite well - Tash [Matthews] was on top, Ikky [Rayners] was on top, and so was Lucas [Ribeiro].

"But I must give credit to Thapelo Morena for always being a threat behind the defence of the opponents, and also helping us create some scoring opportunities.

"I think the first half was the summary of the game, and in the second half – after making a lot of changes, which were informed by many reasons – we lost momentum, and balance, which was expected with many changes to your key players.

"Overall I was happy with how the team played, and unhappy with the number of chances that we again did not score, but a little bit excited that there's a big improvement in the number of shots on target, which means our complimentary sessions are helping."

READ: ‘Selfless’ Thapelo Morena described as Sundowns captain material

The Downs mentor was annoyed with failing to keep a clean sheet in the dying minutes, ending a run of three games without conceding.

"It's like you have lost the match by conceding a goal after the goalkeeper has saved you from the penalty spot, and you concede such a stupid goal," he added.

"Even the penalty itself, I think it was a little bit reckless and unnecessary in my opinion, because we still had cover and we could have still maybe defended the situation better.

"But these things happen in football, but that goal does not taste well – it leaves a very sour taste from the match."