Marco Jansen and Siya Simetu helped the EP Warriors defeat the Northerns Titans by two runs in Centurion on Wednesday, maintaining their position at the top of the T20 Challenge log.
When the hosts were running away in a big 186-run chase, 32-year-old spinner Simetu took three wickets for a miserly 20 runs to ensure the locals ended on 183-7.
This was achieved despite Dewald Brevis scoring 50 off 29 balls (five fours, three sixes) and Rivaldo Moonsamy hitting 34, putting the Titans on course for victory.
At one point, they appeared to be cruising at 121-3 after 13 overs, requiring just over 50 runs in seven overs. However, Heinrich Klaasen was dismissed by his fellow Protea Jansen (1-49), which triggered a collapse.
Simetu removed Dayyaan Galiem (32) and Proteas T20I captain Aiden Markram (25), while Corbin Bosch (seven) was bowled by the seasoned spinner, leaving the hosts struggling to chase and falling just short.
Patrick Kruger also picked up two crucial wickets at the end, ending with 2-22.
Jansen scored 56 off 34 balls, hitting four fours and four sixes, while Jiveshan Pillay scored 50 off 37 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes.
They were the top scorers for the Warriors, who posted a total of 185-5. This result ensured that the visitors maintained their 100% start to the competition, staying top with three wins from three, against a Titans side who were also previously unbeaten.