Mamelodi Sundowns have piled the pressure on early Betway Premiership log leaders Orlando Pirates after keeping pace with the Buccaneers at the top of the table.
The defending champions beat Milford FC 2-0 at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night, moving level with Pirates on 13 points after five matches.
Pirates had opened up a three-point lead with a comfortable win over Kruger United on Tuesday, but Sundowns responded 24 hours later to close the gap.
Iqraam Rayners put the Brazilians ahead deep into first-half stoppage time before Antonio Van Wyk sealed the victory in the 76th minute with his first league goal for the Tshwane side.
The result means Sundowns remain unbeaten in the league, with four wins and a draw from their opening five matches.
However, Pirates retain top spot on goal difference, while Kaizer Chiefs sit third on eight points with a game in hand.
Sundowns dominated possession for much of the encounter but were made to work for the breakthrough by a disciplined Milford defence.
The hosts came closest to opening the scoring through Bennet Mokoena, Tashreeq Matthews and Rayners before the latter finally found the net just before the interval.
Rayners was initially denied by Milford goalkeeper Siphamandla Hleza after Aubrey Modiba won possession and cut the ball back, but the striker reacted quickest to fire home the rebound.
Sundowns continued to press after the break and eventually doubled their advantage when Van Wyk converted another Modiba assist in the 76th minute.
The victory keeps the champions firmly in the title race and sends an early warning to Pirates that they will have little room for error at the summit.
Sundowns now turn their attention to Sunday’s away clash against Golden Arrows, while Pirates will look to protect their lead when they return to action.
