Santa Cruz, St Elizabeth – TAFARI Lions and Black River have taken 2-0 and 1-0 leads over Appleton and Super Action respectively following first round action in the St. Elizabeth Wray and Nephew Major League semi-final on the weekend.

A brace by Kimar Smith, in the second half gave Tafari the victory over Appleton, at New Town in Black River on Saturday, while Kimmar Walker, who had also netted in the mid-season final between the teams, scored in the 61st minute to give Black River the edge over Super Action.

The win for the Errol White coached Tafari team was their first over Appleton this season. They were beaten 1-2 on December 21 and drew 1-1 on March 13.

Black River, on the other hand were beaten 0-3 by Super Action on January 12, this year before gaining revenge in the mid-season final on February 13.

Black River will seek to defend their lead in the return leg set for next Sunday at STETHS.

The Super Action/Black River encounter has been set for next Thursday, at Appleton Estate playfield.