Franklin Cale’s late strike handed SuperSport United a much-need Premiership win as they defeated Ajax Cape Town 2-1 in Polokwane.

Khama Billiat took the first real shot in anger when he fired wide to the left for Ajax in the 10th minute.

Midway through a tame opening period, Sameegh Doutie’s strike from the edge of the area slammed against the post as United fluffed a chance to put themselves ahead.

Prince Nxumalo eventually netted for the hosts in first-half injury time when he latched on to a pass from Sibusiso Zuma to put United in front at the break.

Ajax came back fighting after the interval and Viana Wanderson was wayward with an effort in the 66th minute that sailed over the bar.

Wanderson, however, struck with 17 minutes left, slamming home the equaliser to put pressure back on the home side.

United were saved by Cale who struck with a left-footed shot in the 88th minute that hit the top right corner of the net as SuperSport picked up only their third win in 16 league games this season.

Ajax were left lying third from bottom, just above the relegation zone, going into the lengthy two-month break.