TS Galaxy twice fight back to earn draw with Siwelele in Betway Premiership opener

TS Galaxy twice came from behind to claim a 2-2 draw against Siwelele FC in an entertaining Betway Premiership opener on Sunday evening.

Siphesihle Jeza put Siwelele ahead shortly before the half-hour mark, but Victor Letsoalo equalised from the penalty spot six minutes into the second half.

The home side restored their lead through Vincent Pule 10 minutes after the interval, only for Veluyeke Zulu to head Galaxy level with 20 minutes remaining.

The match ended in further drama when Galaxy goalkeeper Sipho Maseti was sent off in added time for handling the ball outside his area. Substitute goalkeeper Ira Tape was introduced for the final seconds and made an important save from Jordan Marks’ free-kick to preserve a point for TS Galaxy.

The Nedbank Cup finalist had been given an early warning when Neo Mokhachane found space in the penalty area. His hurried effort appeared to catch the outside of his boot before drifting away from goal.

Siwelele grew into the contest and opened the scoring after uncertain defending from the visitors. Maseti attempted to clear the danger, but Siphesihle Jeza charged down the goalkeeper’s kick and watched it continue into the net.

TS Galaxy almost responded immediately. A corner found Victor Letsoalo inside the area, and his powerful header looked destined for the net until Aphiwe Baliti cleared the ball off the goal-line.

Galaxy coach Bernard Parker made an attacking change at half-time, withdrawing debutant Siyanda Xulu and sending on Junior Zindonga.

The switch quickly paid dividends. Two minutes after the restart, Zindonga’s shot struck Shadrack Kobedi’s outstretched arm inside the box. A penalty was awarded and Letsoalo calmly converted to bring the score level.

Siwelele regained the advantage 10 minutes later. Thabiso Sesane threaded a pass through the centre of the Galaxy defence, releasing Vincent Pule. The forward took the ball in his stride, turned towards goal and finished in the bottom corner.

Parker’s side continued to press rather than settle for a narrow defeat and found another equaliser with 20 minutes left. A dangerous free-kick was delivered towards the far post, where Veluyeke Zulu made a determined run and headed the ball into the far corner.

Zulu nearly cost his side soon afterwards when he failed to clear during a scramble in the penalty area. The mistake allowed Christian Saile to attempt an overhead kick, but the effort struck the upright.

There was still time for one final twist. Maseti received a straight red card in added time after handling outside his area, leaving TS Galaxy to finish with Ira Tape in goal. The substitute’s late stop from Marks’ free-kick ensured the visitors left with a share of the points.

Siwelele FC’s next fixtures are against Milford FC, AmaZulu FC and Chippa United.

TS Galaxy will next face Mamelodi Sundowns, followed by Golden Arrows and then TS Galaxy.