Mamelodi Sundowns dropped two crucial points late in the game after drawing 1-1 with Baroka, to miss a chance to extend their lead in the DSTv Premiership table on Monday night.
The reigning champions made 6 changes coming onto the game from the previous league encounter against Chippa United, with Baroka making 5 changes. New signing Erwin Saavedra made his debut for Sundowns after Pavol Safranko was stretchered off the pitch a few minutes before half-time.
Bakgakga started on the front foot and got a penalty after a Rushine De Reuck handball inside the box. Basel Mphahlele stepped up and failed to hit the target when his shot went over the crossbar, and both teams went into half-time all square.
Coming into the second half, Baroka were made to pay for their missed opportunity to take the lead, when Sundowns wasted no time and struck in the 48th minute, thanks to a world-class free-kick by Lyle Lekay after hitting the woodwork twice in the first stanza, netting his 2nd goal of the season.
Kgoloko Thobejane introduced Richard Mbulu and Thamsanqa Masiya, in for Evidence Makgopa and Nhlanhla Mgaga, meanwhile, the Brazilians made a double change, seeing Grant Kekana coming in for Themba Zwane and Neo Maemo replaced Peter Shalulile, who had a quiet evening. Thobejane’s charges kept on pushing and applied pressure in the last 10 minutes of the game, looking to at least secure a point at home. The hard work finally paid off when Mbulu scored a stunning volley from outside the box, to deny Masandawana maximum points, to what seemed to be the last kick of the game.
The spoils are shared in Polokwane! The Brazilians add a point to their #DStvPrem tally! 👆
Baroka FC (90+5' Mbulu) 1️⃣➖1️⃣ Mamelodi Sundowns (49' Lakay) #Sundowns #DownsLive #DStvPrem pic.twitter.com/4feTNMCDe1
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) February 14, 2022
The final result sparked some tension between the Sundowns technical team and the officials, claiming that the referee made a poor decision in giving a foul against them.
Sundowns remain on top of the log with 48 points, and Baroka climbed one spot up to 14th position, level on points with Swallows FC, to keep their top-flight football hopes high.
