The 2019-20 GladAfrica Championship got off to an exciting start with Ajax Cape Town overpowering Free State Stars 3-2, Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila FC (TTM) slicing through Cape Umoya United to the tune of 2-1, while University of Pretoria outwitted Steenberg United 1-0.
In addition, Maccabi FC (Moroka Swallows), TS Galaxy and Richards Bay all dropped vital points by drawing at home.
At Athlone Stadium, the five-goal thriller between the two former PSL giants was a good advert for the new sponsors and an indication that the Urban Warriors are serious about a return to the top flight.
A brace by Grant Margeman coupled with Eleazar Rodgers’ close-range effort gave the Urban Warriors’ fans something to cheer about.
On the other hand, it’s back to the drawing board for Ea Lla Koto for whom new signing, Daniel Gozar (penalty) and Jonas Sakuwaha, were on target.
In Thohoyandou, TTM also began their campaign on a positive note thanks to a goal in each half by Wonderboy Makhubu and Nhlanhla Mgaga.
The Spirited Ones then made the score look a bit more respectable via Muzomuhle Khanyi.
A last-minute effort from former University of KwaZulu-Natal captain, Nqubeko Dlamini, secured AmaTuks an important three-point haul, which could haunt Steenberg.
The much-anticipated clash at Dobsonville Stadium between Maccabi FC (Moroka Swallows) and TS Sporting ended all square at 1-1.
Zeca Marques’ side took an early lead through Thapelo Tshilo prior to Katlego Mojela grabbing a point for the visitors against the run of play.
Jomo Cosmos managed to hold TS Galaxy to a goalless draw in Kameelrivier.
Ezenkosi’s goalkeeper, Melusi Buthelezi, made a few important saves, although his mistake of handling the ball outside the box could have led to a goal but the free kick was cleared.
Brandon Truter’s Richards Bay let a 2-0 lead slip as the Hammer Boys fought back gallantly to level matters at 2-2.
Siyabonga Vilane and Lionel Saal had initially put their names on the scoresheet for the KZN outfit.
