ZIMBABWE international Gerald Takwara made his debut for Ajax Cape Town when he came on as a second half substitute before his team lost 2-1 at home against runaway leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on Tuesday night.

The 23-year-old Takwara, commonly referred to as “General” replaced Zambian player Richard Kabwe in the 46th minute when Ajax Cape Town were already 2-1 down.

The Urban Warriors took the lead in the 27th minute when Lakay shrugged off Thapelo Morena’s challenge before slotting the ball into the bottom corner.

The goal shook the visitors, and in succession Petersen stood up to deny Oupa Manyisa and Percy Tau from levelling matters before Motjeka Madisha saw his header going agonisingly wide of goal earlier on.

Petersen could do nothing though to prevent Ricardo Nascimento equalising from the spot after Isaac Nhlapo was adjudged to have handled inside the box.

Vilakazi, who had been guilty of glaring misses previously, found his first goal of the season two minutes later with an easy tap-in following Tau’s delivery.

A minute after the break, the Urban Warriors nearly drew level, but Lakay blasted over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

Muhsin Ertugral rang the changes in search of the equaliser, including bringing on Takwara who joined from Zimbabwean champions FC Platinum, but they failed to master any meaningful attack.

In contrast, the Brazilians continued with their patient build-up game and troubled the hosts on a few occasions.

With time running out, Sundowns were in complete ascendancy as they spread passes with consummate ease, with the Urban Warriors offering little in response.

It proved to be sufficient for Pitso Mosimane’s side to return to winning ways and stretch their lead at the top of the standings to four points ahead of second-placed Cape Town City.

Teams:

Ajax: Petersen, Kammies, Nhlapo, Booysen, Lebusa, Malepe, Kabwe (Takwara 46'), Losper (Phohlongo 60', Morris, Julies, Lakay (Thabotha 73').

Subs: February, Sasman, Phohlongo, Jacobus, Outtara, Takwara, Thabotha.

Sundowns: Onyango, Langerman, Madisha, Nascimento, Morena (Zwane 82'), Manyisa, Kekana, Mabunda, Vilakazi (Makgalwa 74'), Zwane, Tau.

Subs: Mweene, S.Zwane, Hachi, Makgalwa, Arendse, Sekotlong, Laffor.

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