Santos emerged 2-0 victors over Ajax Cape Town in the Cape Town derby at the Newlands Stadium on Wednesday night.

There was little in the way of goal-scoring opportunities in a first half that was a rather scrappy, yet absorbing affair.

The Urban Warriors started the stronger side, and indeed had more of the ball possession in the first half, but lacked the creativity to unlock a well-organised Santos defence.

'The People's Team's defence looked solid at the back, especially in dealing with a succession of early long throw-ins and corner kicks.

Muhsin Ertugral's side were often forced to play a patient game, keeping the ball at the back, but each time they tried to push forward, a Santos defender was there to break down the move.

First half chances for Ajax saw Franklin Cale and Thulani Serero trying their luck from range, but Santos goal keeper Tshepo Motsoeneng was not forced into making a save.

Ajax keeper Hans Vonk was also not called into action, although just before the half time break, his defenders on the line came to his rescue when Orlin Powell's goal-bound shot, following a cross from Eleazar Rodgers, was kept out.

The second half was an altogether different affair as Santos came out firing on all cylinders.

They soon earned a quick succession of corners, but the Ajax defence held firm.

However, as the half wore on, Santos became stronger and stronger and it was no surprise when they took a 69th minute lead as Bongi Macala fired in a powerful effort.

The shot was saved by Hans Vonk, but rebounded into the goal off Brett Evans.

Musa Otieno added the second goal a minute later when he headed past a stranded Vonk.

Tyrren Arendse should have made it three, but blasted past the goal when he should have scored, and then Diyo Sibisi wasted a chance to pull one back for Ajax with eight minutes to go.

The Urban Warriors continued to mount late pressure, but excellent defence from Santos ensured the win.