Glendene defeated African All Stars of Gauteng 1-0 in a tight but entertaning match at the Galeshewe Stadium in Kimberly in the Northern Cape, while Roses came from behind to emerge victorious over a stubborn Milford FC of KwaZulu Natal.
In the first match of the day, Milford looked to be cruising to a win when they took the lead in the 14th minute through Mbongeni Ngcobo.
It all seemed to be heading for a draw but Sikhwela pounced again four minutes before the final whistle to give Roses a great start to the championship and lead the top goal scorer standings.
Glendene, who are coached by former Ajax Cape Town striker Bradley August, took only 25 minutes to get onto the scoresheet and held on for the entire match to get a hard-fought win.
All Stars bombarded the Cape side’s goal area but found goalkeeper Gershwin Kock in fine form.
With two matches to go, Roses lead Group A with three points – tied with Glendene – but the Free State have a better goal difference.
Mbombela United, who had a bye, are third while Milford FC and All Stars are fourth and fifth respectively following their losses.
The 2015 ABC Motsepe League National Play-offs will run until Sunday, 26 July 2015.
On Tuesday, 21 July Roses United take on African All Stars at 12h30 at the Galeshewe Stadium, with Glendene United facing Mbombela United at the same venue at 15h00. Milford FC have a bye.
Nine provincial winners for the 2014/2015 league season are contesting for the two spots available to play in the National First Division (NFD) for the 2015/2016 league season.
Group B will only be in action on Wednesday, 22 July.
Group A Results:
Milford FC 1 2 Roses United
Glendene United 1 0 African All Stars
Group A Standings:
Roses United vs African All Stars 12h30 Galeshewe Stadium
Glendene United vs Mbombela United 15h00 Galeshewe Stadium
Milford FC BYE