New signings at their respective clubs in the DStv Premiership made their presence felt in the opening fixtures of the season, with several players impressing with their performances.
However, match-day one in SA’s topflight failed to live up to expectations as only 10 goals were scored across all eight matches.
FARPost writer Otis Ntshangase looks at the top new signings that made their mark this past weekend as the 2023/24 PSL campaign roared to life.
DSTV PREMIERSHIP TOP PERFORMING DEBUTANTS
SuperSport United, the trio of Terrence Dzvukamanja, Etiosa Ighodaro and Shandre Campbell had good debuts at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday when they defeated Richards Bay FC 2-0. Dzvukamanja and Ighodaro found the back of the net for the Tshwane side.
Campbell, who was voted the Man of the Match, provided an assist to Dzvukamanja’s first goal and was involved in the Ighodaro’s second. He earned a praise from coach Gavin Hunt who stated the starlet has “definitely has the ability” to be a great player.
Brazilian midfielder Lucas Ribeiro hit the ground running with Mamelodi Sundowns. He made his first start in a 2-1 victory against Sekhukhune United on Friday at Peter Mokaba Stadium. The 24-year-old showed his class by netting the second goal of the match.
On the other hand, Jamie Webber scored the only goal for Babina Noko as they lost 2-1 to Sundowns. For his performance, he became the Man of the Match.
Siyanda Mthanti scored on his Golden Arrows debut against Moroka Swallows on Saturday at Mpumalanga Stadium. He came off the bench and opened the scoring.
Orlando Pirates duo on loan to Swallows Tshegofatso Mabasa and Bongani Sam put up impressive displays against Abafana Bes’thende. Sam won the Man of the Match award, and Mabasa scored a goal to salvage a point.
DSTV PREMIERSHIP SIGNINGS IMPRESS IN THE OPENING MATCHES
Jó Paciência was Cape Town City’s hero scoring against Polokwane City on Sunday at Athlone Stadium. He snatched a last minute winner as he scored the only goal of the match in the stoppage time.
At Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Sunday, Venezuelan midfielder Edson Castillo had a great debut for Amakhosi in a 0-0 draw against Chippa United. He bossed the midfield.
Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki showered the midfield maestro with praise for his performance, stating that Castillo is “intelligent”.
Pirates loanee to Chippa United Goodman Mosele also impressed in the midfield at Moses Mabhida. Mosele walked away with the Man of the Match award.
In Western Cape at the Danie Craven Stadium, Ismaël Touré was solid at the back for Stellenbosch FC against Pirates. He played a vital role as Stellies kept a clean sheet.
As a result of his great display, he walked away with the Man of the Match accolade.
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