Rulani explains surprise Mokoena withdrawal

Head coach Rulani Mokwena has provided an update on what looked to be a potential injury of star midfielder Teboho Mokoena during Mamelodi Sundowns' 2-2 draw against Moroka Swallows.

The Brazilians missed a chance to widen the gap even further at the top of the DStv Premiership table when they were held to a stalemate by the Dube Birds at Dobsonville Stadium on Monday evening. 

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Mokoena had opened the scoring with a screamer from outside the box, before Marcello Allende added a second. Swallows fought back into the encounter through Augustine Mahlonoko from a set-piece, before a controversial Gabadinho Mhango goal secured a point late in the match.

Worryingly, though, for the Yellow Nation was the withdrawal of Mokoena, who looked to have sustained an injury before being replaced by Sipho Mbule just before half-time.

Speaking to the media at the post-match press conference, Mokwena provided clarification over the midfielder's withdrawal.

"No, no (he is not injured). He just felt a small tweak," the coach said.

"I’m very proud of him because I always say to them, once you feel something small, out (call for a substitution) and don’t take the risk.

"He scored a good goal, they could have celebrated and continued playing because you know, the feel-good hormones, they take over the pain. But he was professional enough to say, 'Ey, I’ve got something’ and I’m very proud of him for that."

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The Bafana Bafana international has been one of Sundowns' most relied-upon players this season and has already made 34 appearances for the defending DStv Premiership champions this season.

Meanwhile, the draw will not greatly dent Sundowns' chances of lifting the league title as they still enjoy a 14-point lead on second-placed Stellenbosch FC, with a game in hand. 

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