Platinum Stars injected some life into their fight for survival as they recorded their third victory at home this season, while pushing another relegation threatened side, Moroka Swallows, further into turmoil.

An own goal by Dube Birds defender Rudi Isaacs a minute before halftime was enough to seal a valuable three points for Dikwena in a dull Absa Premiership encounter at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg.

Stars moved up one spot on the Absa Premiership standings to 14th place, swapping places with Swallows who now find themselves in the dreaded playoff spot. Stars coach Allan Freese will be hoping Dikwena have turned the corner and rediscovered the form which saw them finish last season in eighth place with two knockout competitions in their cabinet.

Stars knew there was no room for error and established the early foothold in sweltering Phokeng conditions.

They should have taken the lead through Eleazar Rodgers after 15 minutes, but the former Mamelodi Sundowns man watched as his header went agonisingly wide of goal.

Swallows keeper Obren Cuckovic, selected ahead of veteran Greg Etafia, failed to clear the danger after coming off his line, but was relieved to see Rodgers's header go wide of goal.

Swallows, who last won a league match on December 20 against bottom side AmaZulu, were determined to find the opener after they were let off the hook, but Lerato Chabangu and Siyabonga Nomvethe failed to make the most of the opportunities they had.

The visitors found themselves a goal down just before the break as Isaacs turned Tintswalo Tshabalala's cross from the left into his own net. Isaacs was facing his goal and it was always going to be difficult to clear the ball to safety.

The second period was not any better than the first. The goalkeepers had nothing but the usual routine saves to make and it should be a concern for both coaches.

Swallows coach Fani Madida brought on Vuyisile Wana and Lefa Tsutsulupa in an attempt to at least secure a point, but Dikwena held on for the win.