Mamelodi Sundowns have shifted their focus to extending their Betway Premiership lead after winning the MTN8, with goalkeeper Ricardo Goss confirming the team is ready for Richards Bay. The Brazilians, who top the table by one point from Orlando Pirates, face a tricky away fixture on Tuesday night.
Goss, the second-choice keeper who kept a clean sheet in the 2-0 MTN8 final win over Pirates, said the squad had already moved on from that success. He stated the team returned to training on Sunday and used two days to prepare for the challenge at Princess Magogo Stadium.
Ricardo Goss warned that Richards Bay will not be an easy opponent due to their youthful energy. He expressed confidence, however, that Mamelodi Sundowns' experience would be key to securing a difficult but achievable three points. Goss believes the hosts will try to exploit any fatigue, but the champions are prepared.
Head coach Miguel Cardoso is managing the squad through a congested schedule. The immediate return to work after Saturday's final underlines the club's desire to maintain momentum in the league. Mamelodi Sundowns sit first with 20 points from eight games, and a win would stays at the summit.
The team aims to carry the confidence from their cup victory into the league, where their recent form reads four wins and a draw from the last five matches. Their last outing was the 2-0 victory over Orlando Pirates, with goals from Teboho Mokoena and Iqraam Rayners. The next challenge is a Richards Bay side currently positioned 14th in the table. The full fixtures list shows a demanding period ahead for Cardoso's men. Mamelodi Sundowns will play Richards Bay FC in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday night at Princess Magogo Stadium.
The report in full is at soccerladuma.co.za
