The Reds took the lead as early as the second minute through left back, Mothusi Johnson following a good pass from Lebogang Ditsele. Ditsele received the ball just after the centre line, realised that Johnson was making a run on the left and released him. The latter beat Prisons XI goalkeeper, Bakang Methole from a tight angle to give GU a brilliant start. They kept piling pressure thereafter with Prisons XI looking all confused. Misani Thupa, who started the match upfront in the absence of Kekaetswe Moloi, had a clear chance few minutes after the goal but wasted the opportunity with a weak shot. GU continued to press forward and created numerous opportunities but failed to turn them into goals.
Leading goalscorer in the league, Thatayaone Kgamanyane found himself with an opportunity to increase his goals but failed to beat Methole from close range in the 15th minute. Three minutes later, Mpho Kgaswane made a run on the left and delivered a brilliant cross into the box. However Thupa's attempt to tap into an empty net went over the bar. GU believed they finally got their second goal but Alford Velaphi's goal was ruled offside by the linesman. Prisons goalkeeper, Methole received a straight red card in the 30th minute after denying Thupa a clear goalscoring opportunity with what commentators usually call a 'professional' foul. GU finally increased the lead in the referee's additional time to take a 2-0 lead at halftime.
