Rushine De Reuck seals Simba SC win to maintain perfect start

Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Rushine De Reuck scored the decisive penalty as Simba SC beat Singida Black Stars 2-1 away from home to preserve their perfect start to the 2026/27 NBC Premier League season.

The Tanzanian giants have now won each of their first three league matches under Steve Barker, a run that has taken them to the top of the table on nine points.

Simba made a fast start in the away fixture, with Clatous Chama putting them in front after 13 minutes. However, their advantage lasted only 11 minutes before Singida Black Stars restored parity through Sheikhan Ibrahim.

The match remained level until the 62nd minute, when De Reuck took responsibility from the penalty spot. The South African defender converted to put Simba back in front and ultimately secure all three points for Barker’s side.

Simba were reduced to 10 men later in the contest, but Singida Black Stars were unable to find another equaliser. The result means Simba have maintained their 100% record and moved to the summit with the maximum nine points available from their opening three games.

De Reuck began the match in central defence alongside fellow South African Neo Maema. Another South African, Keletso Makgalwa, was named among the substitutes but did not feature.

The victory continues Simba’s unbeaten beginning to the new NBC Premier League campaign and keeps them ahead at the top of the standings after three rounds of fixtures. Their latest success was secured despite the pressure of playing away from home and finishing the match with 10 players.

For De Reuck, the goal provided a crucial contribution in only his side’s third match of the season. His penalty came after Chama’s early opener and Ibrahim’s equaliser had left the contest finely balanced.

Simba’s next results will determine whether they can maintain their position at the top, but their opening three matches have produced the strongest possible start: three wins, nine points and a place at the head of the league table.