Mamelodi
Sundowns won Q-Innovation’s first Quarter with 17 points. Orlando Pirates can
still reach 16 points in the last match of the Quarter, but Sundowns are now
beyond reach and will walk away with the R1, 5 million prize.
Since
the introduction of Q-Innovation last season, Mamelodi Sundowns have never won
a Quarter before Saturday night. Only Kaizer Chiefs and Platinum Stars have
claimed Q-Innovation prizes (Kaizer Chiefs have won three quarters while
Platinum Stars have won two).
Before
the weekend, SuperSport United were on top of the Q1 log with 15 points from
eight games. They were followed by Moroka Swallows with the same number of points
but an inferior goal deference.
However,
Saturday night’s victory against Orlando Pirates parachuted the Brazilians to
the summit of Q1 with 17 points. A lot was at stake when Sundowns took on
Orlando Pirates as the winner was guaranteed top honours in the Quarter.
PSL
CEO, Brand de Villiers said: “On Saturday we watched an exciting game of
football between two teams that showed hunger and determination. At the end of
the day, Mamelodi Sundowns emerged victorious and also claimed this Quarter. We
would like to congratulate them on winning the Absa Premiership Quarter One.
Under Pitso Mosimane, we have seen Sundowns play good quality football and this
is just reward for them.”
De
Villiers added: “When Q-Innovation was introduced, the Chairman of the League
Dr Khoza said this initiative would create buzz and excitement. In the lead-up
to the game on Saturday, I could sense that excitement in both the social and
printed media.”
