EASTERN Cape got their SAB Under-21 National Championships off to a flying start when they beat favourites Limpopo 2-0 at SJ Smith Stadium in Durban yesterday.

EASTERN Cape got their SAB Under-21 National Championships off to a flying start when they beat favourites Limpopo 2-0 at SJ Smith Stadium in Durban yesterday.

Forwards Siyabulela Witbooi and Thabo Leeuw scored the two goals in the first half against Limpopo, who described the defeat as a wake-up call.

Said Eastern Cape's coach, Msokoli "Chicco" Tyapha: "Well done to the boys, they played great soccer and I have no doubt we are well on track to win this tournament."

Limpopo manager Wisani Madzivhani said they wanted to better their result of last year in Bloemfontein, where they reached the final.

"We are targeting a gold medal this time round," said Madzivhani, whose team is guided by Mike Rapatsa.

In another game also played yesterday, Gauteng and Northern Cape played to a goalless draw.

Ten teams - nine from the provinces and one representing University Sport South Africa - are participating in the championships.

Safa president Kirsten Nematandani said they were happy that the most prominent Regional League product, Ayanda Dlamini of AmaZulu, was doing well in the Premiership.

SJ Smith, Hammersdale and Cato Manor stadiums hosted the matches. Besides Dlamini, AmaZulu have four more graduates of the Regional League.

They are Siboniso Gumede of Bright Stars, Thamsanqa Sangweni of Dondeta FC, Smangaliso Biyela of Amazimtoti Academy and Young Mates' Sithembiso Dlamini.