Simba SC kick-started their Tanzania  Premier League campaign on a high note after defeating JKT Tanzania 3-1 on Thursday evening.

Meddie Kagere opened the scoring for the defending champions in the second minute following a slow start by the hosts. The Ugandan born Rwandan completed his brace just 15 minutes after the break.

Teammate Miraji Athuman put the result beyond doubt with his 74th-minute strike. JKT fought for a consolation goal, and it came with three minutes left courtesy of Edward Songo.

The result is a welcome relief for Patrick Aussems charges who were eliminated from the CAF Champions League  barely a week ago by UD Songo of Mozambique.

Simba SC will now prepare for a game against Mtibwa Sugar on September 17.

Rivals Yanga SC fell to Ruvu Shootings by a solitary goal in the same competition last Wednesday.