Platinum Stars’ preparations for their CAF Champions League showdown with Al-Ahly took a dent as they were convincingly beaten 3-1 in the Absa Premiership by Free State Stars at Olympia Park on Tuesday night.

Free State Stars have moved up to fourth place in the Absa Premiership table after they beat Platinum Stars 3-1 at Olympia Park on Tuesday night.

With the Tycoons focused on their looming CAF Champions league showdown against Al Ahly of Egypt, 'Ea Lla Koto' grabbed the opportunity to return to winning ways following their exit from the lucrative Nedbank Cup at the weekend.

The first half of the match was a drab affair with the Free State side converting their only two efforts into goals.

After Edward Williams had missed an excellent chance for the home side, Diyo Sibisi opened the scoring just after the half-hour mark.

Chabalala scored the second eight minutes later, heading in a cross from Siyabonga Mdluli to ensure the Free State side went into the break with a two goal advantage.

The visitors started well in the second half, and Ruben Cloete sealed the points for Ee Lla Koto shortly after the hour mark.

Simba Marumo came close to scoring twice for the Tycoons in the second half, but redeemed himself shortly before the close of play with a well-struck shot that left 'keeper Kennedy Mweene no chance.

The result means the Free State side move up to fourth, ahead of Platinum Stars, who drop down to sixth.

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