Marumo Gallants have finally given their supporters something to celebrate after recording their first victory of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign with an entertaining 3-2 triumph over Siwelele FC on Friday night.

The result at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium ended Gallants' frustrating wait for a league victory after nine attempts and provided much-needed relief for head coach Ronnie Kanalelo, whose team had endured a difficult opening to the season.

It was also their first league victory since March, making the three points particularly important as they look to move away from the lower end of the standings.

Gallants started the encounter with real purpose and needed just seven minutes to break the deadlock. Samkelo Sihlali opened the scoring, registering his first goal since joining the club from Sekhukhune United.

Siwelele gradually found their rhythm and responded in the 26th minute through debutant Raymond Makhuvele, who brought the visitors back into the contest with an equalising goal.

However, Gallants refused to allow their early advantage to slip away without a fight. Seketso Moremi produced the assist for Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, who restored the hosts' lead in the 32nd minute.

The teams went into the half-time break with Gallants leading 2-1, but the home side wasted little time extending their advantage after the restart.

Sihlali was again at the centre of the action, finding the back of the net in the 49th minute to complete his brace and put Gallants firmly in control at 3-1.

The forward's second goal appeared to give the hosts breathing space, but Siwelele were determined to make a contest of it.

Six minutes later, Vincent Pule produced a powerful free-kick to reduce the deficit to 3-2. The goal gave the visitors renewed hope and set up a tense closing period.

Siwelele pushed for an equaliser, with former Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa introduced in the 84th minute as coach Godfrey Mosoetsa searched for a late breakthrough.

Despite the pressure, Gallants remained organised and managed to protect their narrow advantage until the final whistle.

Sihlali's outstanding contribution earned him the Man of the Match award after scoring twice in a performance that proved decisive in ending the club's winless run.

The victory lifts Gallants to 15th position on the Betway Premiership table, while Siwelele remain 14th after suffering their first defeat in three matches.

For Gallants, the result could prove to be an important turning point in their campaign. Having struggled to collect maximum points during the opening weeks, they will now hope to build on this performance and establish greater consistency.

Source:

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