CHIPPA CONSOLIDATE TOP SPOT ON LOG
Chilly Boyz look set to return to PSL
CHIPPA United are six points clear at the top of the National First Division log after a 2-1 win over Roses United at Kaizer Sebothelo Stadium in Mangaung on Sunday.
The Chilly Boyz managed the win despite finishing the match with nine men.
Buyani Sali received the red card in the 26th minute, while goalkeeper Sean Roberts got his marching orders six minutes from time.
Now guided by the welltravelled Serb Vladislav Heric, the Chilli Boyz have accumulated 42 points from 21 games.
Relegated from the Absa Premiership last season, Chippa look set to bounce back to the top flight.
They are unbeaten in their last five matches.
Another Cape side, Milano United, are second with 36 points from 20 games. Thirdplaced Limpopo club Baroka FC also have 36 points, but have played 21 games.
Nigerian George Akpabio scored both goals for Chippa in an only NFD fixture at the weekend.
Alushavhiwi Marubini pulled one back for Roses.
Chippa chairman Siviwe Mpengesi is over the moon with the progress of his club in their quest to return to the Premier Soccer League next season.
“Consistency will be key if we are serious about winning the league to gain automatic promotion to the PSL. Things are looking good for us and I ’ m happy with our progress,” Mpengesi told Sowetan yesterday.
“We are gradually approaching the end of the league campaign. We need to start opening up a big gap on the log so that other clubs cannot catch up with us.”
Besides Akpabio, Chippa have other experienced players like Mkhanyiseli Siwahla, Brett Carelse, Petrus Ngebo and new recruit Fikru Tefera Lemessa in their squad.
Mamelodi Sundowns legend Isaac Shai ’ s son, Siyabulela, who played a big role in United FC reaching the Nedbank Cup semifinals last year, is also in Chippa ’ s books.