Mamelodi Sundowns vs Richards Bay: Miguel Cardoso pleased as punch with thumping MTN8 win
Mamelodi Sundowns delivered a dominant 4-0 victory over Richards Bay in the MTN8, with coach Miguel Cardoso praising the team’s strong start and impressive 76% possession, despite the chilly conditions at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Seen here: Marcelo Allende (left) and Siyabonga Mabena (right) celebrate. Picture: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix
Image: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix
Mamelodi Sundowns made an emphatic start to the new season with a 4-0 thumping of Richards Bay in the MTN8 at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday, and Miguel Cardoso was left a satisfied coach.
Iqraam Rayners opened the scoring in the 10th minute, before Simphiwe Mcineka scored an own goal for Richards Bay to send his side into the break at 2-0 down.
Rayners completed his brace with the second stanza in its infancy, before Siyabonga Mabena made it four with just under a quarter of an hour remaining to seal the comprehensive scoreline.
It was a completely dominant display from Sundowns as they boasted a whopping 76% possession. It was no surprise then that Cardoso was rather pleased after the match.
Cardoso Emphasises Importance of a Strong Start in Game Preparation
“Obviously, it was important to start strong. We made two weeks’ preparations so we knew that taking the game for the last stages, last minutes or even for extra time will never be good for us,” Cardoso told SuperSport TV.
“But I think the team understands the message, we started very strong, scored and it was important to manage some of the situations we had.
“Some substitutions that we needed to make, managing so that we can keep the pace, congratulations to the players.”
Strong Supporter Turnout and Exciting Game on a Chilly Evening in Atteridgeville
On a decidedly chilly evening in Atteridgeville, Cardoso also noted the strong supporter turnout.
“I think it was an interesting game for even the people in the stands on a cold night. We expect that in the future it continues.
“Yes, I think people deserve a good game, spectacle, football must also excite people. Both teams performed well and congratulations to them to be here on such a good night.”