A two-goal burst in the opening 10 minutes of the encounter setup the victory for the Brazilians, as they maintained their seven point lead at the top of the table. And though Aces pulled a goal back late in the encounter, it would be Sundowns who would walk away with all three points.
Aces remained on 36 points, for fourth spot on the log.
With just five minutes gone, Sundowns stamped their authority on proceedings, with Khama Billiat setting up Mzikayise Mashaba for the opening goal. Three minutes later, it was 2-0. This time, Themba Zwane was the provider and Hlompo Kekana netted with a sweet left-foot finish.
Sundowns continued to dominate and should have increased their advantage soon after, but Billiat skied his effort over the bar.
Aces then made an early substitution, with Vincent Kobola coming on in place of Bryce Moon.
Gradually, the Mpumalanga side starting to get back into the game, with Thanduyise Khuboni’s shot at goal well saved by Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango.
There was another opportunity for Aces from an Aubrey Ngoma corner-kick, but Kekana was able to make a desperate goal-line clearance.
Just before half-time, Keagan Dolly went close for Sundowns, managing only to steer his effort wide of goal.
Aces made two substitutions in the 55th minute. Aubrey Modiba was replaced by Lindokuhle Mbatha, and Mukuka Mulenga went off and Sibusiso Masina came on. The Mpumalanga club was making a fist of it in the second half and they were unlucky not to score when Masina’s shot flew over the bar.
Aces goalkeeper Shu-Aib Walters was called on to punch clear a dangerous corner from Dolly and, when the ball fell to Billiat, the Zimbabwean shot wide. Mashaba nearly got his second of the night when bursting clear and unleashing a thunderous drive, but the ball hit the crossbar.
Late substitutions for Sundowns saw Katlego Mashego replacing Billiat, and Anthony Laffor in for Dolly.
Aces exerted late pressure and managed to pull one back when Mpho Matsi headed in at the near post but it would prove just a consolation score as the hosts were able to hold out for the victory.
Source: African News Agency (ANA)
