Marumo Gallants secure first Betway Premiership win of the season

Marumo Gallants ended their wait for a first victory in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season with a 3-2 win over Siwelele FC at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

The result came at the ninth attempt and moved Gallants out of the group of teams still searching for their opening league success. They had been one of only two sides yet to win in the competition this campaign.

Gallants made the ideal start when Sihlali headed home from close range after six minutes. Siwelele goalkeeper February then produced an excellent reaction save in the 20th minute to deny Ncube’s powerful header.

Siwelele equalised five minutes later through debutant Makhuvele, who rose above his marker to head past Mlambo. Gallants restored their advantage in the 32nd minute, with Ndlondlo finishing a well-worked move for his first goal of the season.

Gallants led 2-1 at half-time and extended their advantage shortly after the restart. Sihlali completed his brace in the 49th minute with a composed finish to give his side a two-goal cushion.

Siwelele responded in the 55th minute when Pule reduced the deficit with a fine free-kick. Gallants introduced Moletshe, Otladisa and Madiba for the final 25 minutes as they looked to protect their lead.

With 15 minutes remaining, Siwelele were still pushing for an equaliser, but Gallants held firm to claim their first win of the campaign. Siwelele had arrived in good form after winning their previous two matches in all competitions.

Marumo Gallants started with Mlambo, Rikhotso, Ntiya-Ntiya, Motshoeneng, Manku, Ndlondlo, Pheeha, Moremi, Sihlali, Kunene and Ncube.

Siwelele’s starting XI was February, Lupalule, Mfolozi, Sesane, Ndebele, Kobedi, Mokhachane, Makhuvele, Jeza, Mazibuko and Noge.

Aphiwe Baliti was suspended for Siwelele.

The weekend’s remaining fixtures include the meeting between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at 15h30 on Saturday. Milford face Sekhukhune United at the same time, while Stellenbosch host Chippa United and AmaZulu FC play Golden Arrows at 18h00.

Polokwane City take on TS Galaxy at 18h00, before Kruger United meet Richards Bay and Mamelodi Sundowns face Durban City at 20h15.

Friday’s fixture was Marumo Gallants against Siwelele FC, which ended 3-2.