Two goals in each half by wingers Bryce Moon and Franklin Cale were enough to erase the memories of the past five months when Muhsin Ertugral's 'chickens' were beaten in the Telkom Knockout Final by Silver Stars.

Looking to end their eight-year run of failing to win any knockout competition, it was the case of so near yet so far for Patrice Motsepe's boys as they received their fourth spanking from these young Ajax marauders.

As usual, Ajax showed no respect for Sundowns and the magical wands of 'Coach of the Season' Ertugral came to the fore once again, illustrating that he is the best in the game.

Commitment and fighting for every ball without surrender was at its abundance, as Ajax frustrated their more fancied opponents from start to finish.

Even the presence of 'Player of the Year' midfield Godfrey Sapula did not help 'Downs, as he failed to stamp his authority in this match with Clifford Ngobeni marking him out of the match.

The stubborn Ajax side eager to prove that their three previous victories was not a fluke was followed by a collection of sheer hard work and ability to pull the biggest scalp once again proving to other teams who tried but failed dismally how to beat Sundowns hands down.

When midfield-cum-striker Surprise Moriri failed to beat Ajax 'keeper Hans Vonk with a header in the 13th minute, Ajax's response was a marvel to watch as they capitalised on a clever counter-attack.

Rising star Bryce Moon was allowed acres of space to beat Calvin Marlin after Naseer Allie's cross to give his team the lead a minute later and from there, Sundowns knew that they were in a torrid night.

Benson Mhlongo, who was used as a crafter, nearly levelled matters in the 35th minute, but his header went wide.

Ajax held on despite Moriri's attempt five minutes later to have a brilliant first half.

Sundowns coach Gordon Igesund must have said something special to his big-earners in the dressing room at half-time as the 'Brazilians' came back strongly in the second half.

There was an indication of a team trying to claw its way back - but Ajax were as resolute as ever.

Sundowns tried harder, but such was Ajax's positive approach that they gave nothing as they thwarted their attempts to the frustration of their fans who where certain of a victory this time around.

The introduction of Patrick Apataki, Josta Dladla and Shakes Ngwenya by Igesund did nothing to dampen Ajax spirited display.

With time ticking away, Sundowns were caught napping when Marlin was forced to commit himself to a 50/50 challenge with Fanteni and Cale who was on hand to score from a gasping net to give his side their deserved victory in the 79th minute.

Cale's goal was the best way to bring down the curtain for a team with no big-name players or financial clout, but with plenty desire and the will to re-write history books.

The teams:

Sundowns (4-5-1): Calvin Marlin, Vuyo Mere, David Kannemeyer (Shakes Ngwenya 63), Oscar Ntwagae, Michael Manzini, Benson Mhlongo, Lerato Chabangu, Godfrey Sapula, Dillon Sheppard (Josta Dladla 56), Surprise Moriri, Jose Torrealba (Patrick Apataki 51).

Coach: Gordon Igesund

Ajax (4-5-1): Hans Vonk, Dominic Isaacs, Brett Carelse, Nazeer Allie, Tshololo Tshayama, Clifford Ngobeni (Granwald Scott 66), Bryce Moon (Roberto Do Santos 81), Franklin Cale, Terror Fanteni, Eyong Enoh, Nathan Paulse ( Russel Mwafulirwa 62).

Coach: Muhsin Ertugral

Referee: Thabo Nkosi

Cautions:  Nkosi 24, Allie 29, Cale 52, Ngobeni 60

By Patrick Baloyi/Backpagepix