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Neeskens: Ajax are special

Johannesburg - Mamelodi Sundowns coach Johan Neeskens admits his side's victory over Ajax Cape Town was bitter-sweet, given his fondness for the coastal outfit.

The Brazilians extended their lead at the top of the PSL standings with a 3-0 success over the Urban Warriors on Saturday, leaving Downs four points clear of Orlando Pirates in second.

And while the Dutch tactician insists he is delighted to see his side come away from Newlands with the three points, the former Ajax Amsterdam ace also admits to having a soft spot for the Mother City outfit.

"I think it was a very important win for us. We were playing against a team that I like very much," he said.

"I like the way they play, they are quality team with a lot of movement especially in midfield. They are always trying to attack; they always had one of their midfielders coming into the box trying to be dangerous."

Elias Pelembe sent Downs on their way to victory, and Neeskens believes it was vital they were the ones to draw first blood.

He added: "It went up and down from both sides; I think they had the upper hand by being more dangerous coming to the box. It was then important that we scored the (first) goal.

"In half-time we discussed the matter and I think the team picked up, I think the whole second half, we didn't give away a lot of chances away and of course they had to take more risks to get the equaliser and automatically we got more space to attack and finish off the game.

"Overall I'm very happy with the way the team picked it up especially in the second half. If you beat Ajax 3-0 at home, I think it is a terrific result and I give everyone in my team a big compliment."

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