Johannesburg – Mamelodi Sundowns won the first edition of the Shell Helix Ultra Cup when they defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in Saturday's clash at the FNB Stadium.
The first half was devoid of chances though Kennedy Mweene had to be sharp to deny Khama Billiat before the break.
After the interval, Jeremy Brockie got the first before Themba Zwane added a second late on. At the death, Bernard Parker headed home a consolation.
It was a cautious opening 20 minutes from Chiefs and Sundowns with little goal-mouth action to speak of.
The style of the match was befitting of one this early in the pre-season period with passes going astray and action in the final third virtually non-existent.
The Brazilians did put some threat on the opposition in the early stages as Gaston Sirino turned inside his marker on the left, however, his curled strike flew wide of the top corner with Itumeleng Khune watching on.
As the half wore on Billiat began to show his quality as his runs into the penalty area began to open cracks in Downs' defence.
Just before the break Billiat was racing on to a ball which caused goalkeeper Mweene to rush out of his area to clear from danger.
On the stroke of half-time, Siphiwe Tshabala showed his creative instincts as he set up the Zimbabwe star for what appeared to be an easy tap-in. Nonetheless, Mweene was alert as he blocked the strike with his leg.
After the interval, the game came to life as Brockie struck a goal in competitive play for the first time. After fine skill from Anthony Laffor saw him beat Daniel Cardoso, his strike hit the post though Brockie was on hand to convert with ease.
The chances were few and far between with Leo Castro manufacturing a chance out of virtually nothing, however, his volley was tame and caused no problems.
In injury time there would be two more goals as first Zwane doubled the advantage from a fine pass by George Lebese, before Parker added some respectability to the scoreline with a header from a corner late on.
