Mamelodi Sundowns are confirmed Absa Premiership Champions for a ninth time, a fourth league title in six years under Pitso Mosimane.
Masandawana who had to beat Free State Stars away on the last day of the season did the business through midfielder Phakamani Mahlambi’s goal in the 43rd minute, the former replaced Gaston Sirino who had come off due to a hamstring injury.
The hosts had several attempts at goal in the first period but Denis Onyango’s brilliant saves kept Sundowns in the game.
After the break, Sundowns seemed to get their groove back building attack after attack but they were poor in the final third failing to convert on numerous occasions.
Themba Zwane, Sibusiso Vilakazi and skipper Hlompho Kekana the biggest culprits in failing to double the lead.
Pitso Mosimane now joins Gordon Igesund, Gavin Hunt and Ted Duemitru with four league titles but he is the only coach to win all four title with one club.
“This was a big tough game and this title is very emotional, it’s bigger than any other title, I know there have been lots of issues but am excited and happy for the people, club and players,” Mosimane said after the match.
Uganda Cranes captain Denis Onyango and Sundowns skipper Hlompho Kekana join Diane Klate as the most successful players in the league with six league titles.
Denis Onyango who walked away with the man of the match award emphasized how difficult it was to win the title.
“It’s been tough for me this season and the team but we kept fighting and being strong. Keeping a clean sheet was great for me too today but we knew it was tough. We focused on our game and that’s what we did to be Champions” Onyango said.
Elsewhere, Multin Micho Sredejovic guided Orlando Pirates to a second consecutive finish since he returned to the Soweto giants.
Pirates beat Polokwane City 3-0 with Tembakhosi Lorch scoring a brace while Pule scored the other, for Micho its success.
“It was not easy because it was a tough game but we got the result, we are two points better than last season which is a success,” Micho said after the game.
“We had too many draws (12) which I thought cost us the title but all in all appreciation to the chairman, the fans and everyone who has supported us,” he added.
Both Sundowns and Pirates qualify to give another shot at the Africa Champions League title when the 2019/2020 seasons starts.
