Paulse got the nod in the absence of free-scoring Russell Mwafulirwa and he repayed his coach Craig Rosslee's confidence when he cancelled defender George Mofokeng's first half goal in stoppage-time.

Ajax came into this match determined to stretch their lead at the top of the Premiership log standings, but a trip to the North West was never going to be easy.

The hosts duly fought hard to stop the 'Urban Warriors' brigade, Stars were determined to change their fortunes with a first victory since the departure of former coach Owen da Gama.

Their determination would have a negative effect on their gameplan as defender Mofokeng was booked and Michael Khaile was shown a red card.

However the hosts went ahead through the former Ajax defensive starlwart scored and Stars enjoyed a 1-0 lead at half-time.

Chasing the game in the second half Ajax introduced Mfundo Shumana for Nhlanhla Shabalala and Shameegh Doutie for Bafana Bafana international Bryce Moon - who was operating in his more familiar right wing position.

And Stars took off former Orlando Pirates duo Steve Lekoelea and Phumudzo Manenzhe and replaced them with Collen Magkopela and another former 'Buccaneers' midfielder Solomon Mathe.

Meanwhile more Stars players Alfred Monareng and substitute Magkopela went into the referee's book as Ajax pushed forward for the equaliser.

They found it in the 91st minute through workhorse Paulse and made sure that they remain at the top of the standings.