Shane Roberts, who was promoted to the first team, was thrown straight into the line up while
Skipper Robyn Johannes returned to side and lined up in the midfield, while there also a first start for Surprise Ralani.
Despite the numerous changes from Benni McCarthy, neither side could find an opening goal in the first stanza as the sides went into the break goalless.
After another quiet start to the second stanza, the Citizens broke the deadlock with five minutes remaining thanks to a strike from Nana Akosah-Bempah.
Akosah-Bempa's strike proved to be the final goal of the half as the Citizens take a slight advantage into the second leg.
City: Walters, Kobola, Mngonyama, Gumede, Seedat, Johannes, Roberts, Ralani, Masina, Nana, Moseamedi
Subs: Stephens, Edmilson, Mkhize, Fielies, Kewuti, Patosi, Lakay