After Mamelodi Sundowns claimed the DStv Premiership title with seven matches to spare and without kicking a ball domestically this past weekend, Soccer Laduma looks at key factors to their success this season.
Early season dominance
In their first 15 matches of the season, Sundowns had collected 36 out of a possible 45 points and that had already put them in a good position to win their sixth consecutive title. Last season, 65 points were enough to wrap up the title for Sundowns and, after 15 matches this term, they had already secured more than half of the points they amassed in the previous campaign. It had become clear at the halfway point that Sundowns were on their way to yet another title. They got the job done early, which put them in a good position to win the title and put more focus in trying to secure the CAF Champions League title.
Technical team changes
A big decision had to be made to make some technical team decisions and it has proven to be a masterstroke. Before Sundowns appointed Rulani Mokwena as head coach, Sundowns were getting positive results, with just two defeats in 10 league matches, but there were concerns over the team's overall performances, especially after they were hammered 3-0 by Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 second leg semi-final clash in Polokwane. After that heavy defeat, the club did away with the co-coaching arrangement, making the bold decision to demote Manqoba Mngqithi and give Mokwena full control of the first team. At times, this can cause divisions within the team, especially when the coach who was previously in charge of the co-coaching arrangement remains a part of the technical team. But at Sundowns, this was not the case. And, even if it did cause divisions, this has not been visible on the pitch as Sundowns have continued to dominate domestic football with the guts and guile they usually do.
The evolution of players
One of key factors to Sundowns' success is not only focusing on trying to get positive results. The technical team is hellbent on improving players and there are a number of players in the team who have taken their game to new levels. Teboho Mokoena has been immense in the middle of the park for Sundowns and has been given leadership responsibilities, which have not fazed him at all. Mothobi Mvala is proving to be one of the best central defenders in the league after a change in position, while Neo Maema and Sphelele Mkhulise are others one who have improved immensely in midfield. Grant Kekana has established himself as a Bafana Bafana international and a player who is more composed and Khuliso Mudau is constantly growing his game. Cassius Mailula has been incredible upfront and was an important figure in attack when Peter Shalulile was out recovering from injury.
Smart signings
Not all of Sundowns' signings have made an impact, but Ronwen Williams and Marcelo Allende have come in to add value to a side that was already so dominant. Williams has pulled off some match-winning saves throughout the campaign and has kept an impressive 14 clean sheets in the league. Allende, meanwhile, has formed an incredible partnership with Mokoena in the middle of the park, bringing his experience to inspire Sundowns to another title.
Squad rotation
Since his appointment as head coach, Mokwena has managed to rotate his squad quite well, keeping the players fresh during a period where they do a lot of travelling. This creates harmony in the team, with players feeling like they are a part of the squad. He has used the squad well and this has allowed Sundowns to compete on all fronts with no talk of fatigue in the team.
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