TS Galaxy goalkeeper sees red after rugby lines confusion in Betway Premiership opener

TS Galaxy goalkeeper Sipho Maseti was sent off in extraordinary circumstances during his side’s 2-2 draw with Siwelele FC after handling the ball outside his penalty area in deep stoppage time.

The incident happened at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, where the two teams were level in the opening match of the season. Maseti collected the ball with his hands but appeared to believe he was still inside the 18-yard box.

The referee immediately produced a straight red card for handling outside the penalty area, leaving TS Galaxy, also known as the Rockets, to finish the match with 10 players.

Faint rugby markings on the dual-purpose pitch are understood to have contributed to Maseti’s confusion over his position. Toyota Stadium is the home of the Free State Cheetahs, who have recently played Currie Cup matches at the venue.

Maseti’s dismissal brought a remarkable end to a difficult night for the goalkeeper. Earlier in the match, an attempted clearance by the TS Galaxy shot-stopper was charged down by Siphesihle Jeza, allowing Siwelele FC to score the opening goal.

Galaxy recovered from that setback and fought back into the contest. Victor Letsoalo converted a penalty before Veluyeke Zulu headed in to help the visitors or hosts, depending on the match designation, draw level at 2-2.

The late red card appeared to give Siwelele FC one final opportunity to claim all three points. With Maseti sent off, substitute goalkeeper Ira Tape was brought on to face the resulting free-kick.

Tape made an immediate impact, producing an excellent save to deny Jordan Marks. His intervention preserved the 2-2 scoreline and ensured TS Galaxy secured a point despite the unusual late drama.

Maseti was left looking stunned as he realised the ball had been handled outside his area. The mistake, apparently influenced by the faint rugby lines visible on the pitch, added an unexpected twist to an already eventful Betway Premiership opener.

The result means the Rockets began their season with a draw, while Siwelele FC also had to settle for a point after twice taking advantage of errors and then being denied by Tape in the final moments.