September believes Sundowns' defeat was a wake-up call for log leaders SuperSport

Thabo September believes the defeat at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium to Mamelodi Sundowns was a wake-up call for his team.

The DStv Diski challenge log leaders, who have gone 11 games without losing [winning 10 and playing one draw], went to the Tshwane derby as the favourites to emerge victorious.

However, Sundowns proved them wrong, claiming the derby bragging rights with a 2-0 victory.

Sundowns' in-form striker Jerome Karelse scored both goals of the game, taking his tally to 26 goals after 23 matches this season.

"You know sometimes you need to lose the game to wake up," said coach September.

"It is a good time to get a wake-up call against opposition that was well prepared.

"It is seven games to go, at least we have a chance to get the momentum again unlike when it is two games to go."

He continued explaining: "Sundowns were well prepared. They had a good tactic playing two strikers and number 10 behind them, which allowed them to have 1v1 at the back when they got the ball.

"We struggled in the first half. We tried to change it, but when we fixed that, it was already 2-0.

"Second half we went with three centre backs, we did well in the second half but we will take that to the next game."

Matsatsantsa will now travel to Isak Steyl Stadium to face Sekhukhune United on Saturday, where they would be hoping to return to winning ways.

Kick-off is at 10am CAT (SA, GMT+2).

After 23 games, they have gathered 49 points, one ahead of second-placed Cape Town City FC and two points ahead of Orlando Pirates, who are occupying the third spot.

They need a victory at all costs to maintain their place at the top of the log.

Failure to do so could see Pirates or City returning to the pole position.