Kamohelo Mahlatsi's second-half goal was the difference as Swallows FC edged out Cape Umoya United 1-0 in the opening round of the Nedbank Cup.
The first half proved to be a one-sided affair as the visitors sat back in their own half, allowing Swallows plenty of time on the ball.
United's approach had the desired effect, however, as the Dube Birds struggled to break them down and create clear-cut goal scoring chances.
Swallows did manage to create a few noteworthy chances, though, with Sifiso Hlanti's deflected shot forcing United keeper Lloyd Kazapua into making a save in the 19th minute.
Kazapua was again called into action five minutes later and was alert to the danger, getting down well to tip winger Kgaogelo Sekgota's low shot behind for a corner.
From the resulting corner, Musa Nyatama managed to wriggle free of his marker before rising unopposed, but he could not direct his header on target, letting United off the hook.
There was one last chance for the hosts in the closing stages of the first half as Ruzaigh Gamildien took aim at the far corner of goal, only for Sipho Sibiya to be flagged for offside as he attempted to bundle the ball home.
Cape Umoya had the first chance of note at the start of the second half after earning a free-kick on the edge of the box. However, the chance came to nothing as Swallows keeper Thela Ngobeni snapped up the shot with ease.
The opening goal eventually arrived in the 56th minute, Kamohelo Mahlatsi slotting the ball in the back of the net to give Swallows a slender advantage.
The visitors redoubled their efforts after falling behind but they found it tough going after Swallows boss Brandon Truter made a double substitution in a bid to shore up the defence.
And Swallows were able to see out the remaining minutes with relative ease, securing a narrow win and place in the draw for the Nedbank Cup Last 16.
- TEAMtalk media