Aubrey Modiba netted the only goal of the game as SuperSport United defeated Ajax Cape Town 1-0 on Wednesday night at the Mbombela Stadium.

The home side started the brighter of the two teams and came close to opening the scoring in the eighth, courtesy of an effort by Modiba.

The visitors failed to threaten SuperSport in the opening stanza and were reduced to virtual spectators. Azubuike Egwueke came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock when he got on to the end of a Thuso Phala free kick in the 15th minute, but his effort sailed over the bar.

SuperSport were rewarded for their continuous attacking efforts when Richard Boateng’s pinpoint cross into the area was met by Modiba, who made no mistake with his header.

Eric Tinkler’s men were denied a second after a fine save by goalkeeper Jody February moments before the half-time break from striker Bradly Grobler.

Ajax showed more initiative in the second half and came close to the getting the equaliser, but Tashreeq Morris’ effort was kept out by Reyaad Pieterse.

The Urban Warriors were dealt an injury blow when veteran defender Reece Evans was replaced by Yagan Sasman.

SuperSport managed to hold on to their one-goal lead and claimed a valuable 1-0 victory.

SuperSport XI: 1. Pieterse, 20. Kekana, 29. Gould, Egwuekwe, 2. Boateng, 8. Furman, 6. Letsholonyane (Mashamaite 90′), 16. Modiba, 19. Lakay (Mbule 60′), 13. Phala, 7. Grobler (Brockie 59′).

Ajax CT XI: 22. February, 5. Lebusa, 30. Booysen, 13. Nhlapho, 2. Evans (Sasman 71′), 3. Pieterse, 8. Margeman, 20. Mzwakali (Losper 85′), 7. Mosadi, 11. Morris, 28. Phohlongo (George 41′).

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix