Mamelodi Sundowns registered a hard fought 1-0 win over the inconsistent Moroka Swallows in their Absa Premiership clash played at the Dobsonville Stadium on Wednesday.

It was Katlego Mphela's solitary goal that ensured that the visiting Brazilians went home with all the three points on offer.

Moroka Swallows played a defensive game, with their coach, Reiner Zobel starting the game with seven defensive and three attacking players.

However, that did not stop the Sundowns dominance, as the Brazilians enjoyed much ball possession. The Brazilians went on the offensive from the first whistle, and showed the qualities which they need to display to be PSL title contenders.

The visitors were impressive in their forward forays, with the evergreen Esrom Nyandoro underlining his class with a commendable performance.

Swallows tried to use Lungisani Ndlela's aerial power, but the tall striker always found himself isolated with no one supporting him.

Against the run of play, Sundowns broke through in the shape of Katlego Mphela who after receiving a defence splitting pass from the middle, outran Swallows' Ashraf Hendricks before beating keeper, Greg Etafia with a low shot in the 35th minute to score his eleventh goal of the season.

At some stages of the first half, it appeared to be plain sailing for the Brazilians as the Birds offered little resistance and retreated amid the Sundowns' onslaught.

After the break, there was some rough play, and in the process, Vuyo Mere, and Keegan Ritchie were booked by the referee. In an attempt to come back into the game, Swallows coach, Reiner Zobel introduced Igo Alves and Sibusiso Khumalo in place of Kagiso Denge and Davi Runcan respectively and the move nearly paid dividends.

Khumalo sent an inviting cross in the path of Alves, but his attempt was well read by Brian Baloyi in Sundowns' goals.

It was Swallows who were more business like in the second half, as they tried everything in their power to get that important equaliser, but Sundowns held on to their lead with grim determination until the end.

Sapa

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