Cele voices caution as NFD action resumes

Thanda Royal Zulu star and the National First Division’s joint leading scorer, Mhlengi Cele (right), says they will not fool themselves into thinking they have made it to the Absa Premiership until the last day of league action.

Amabhubesi go into the second round of their NFD run enjoying a comfortable 10-point lead and are yet to taste defeat this season.

Cele said they know half the job is done, but the tougher task still lies ahead as opponents will obviously be targeting them in the second round.

“We are happy with what we have achieved, but it would mean nothing if we didn’t get automatic promotion. It is good that people are congratulating us on a good run so far, but we still need to work even harder,” he said.

The 29-year-old has already netted 11 times but said he would not want to take all the glory as it has been a team effort.

Amabhubesi resume their campaign against a resurgent Mbombela United at Umhlathuze Sports Complex on February 12.

Thanda’s closest rivals Royal Eagles also resume their campaign with a home fixture against Stellenbosch FC on the same date.

Eagles were on form but ended their year on a sour note with a 2-1 defeat to Black Leopards and will be hoping to get back to winning ways at the Harry Gwala Stadium.

At the bottom end of the league, Magesi FC and Santos will be hoping for better results.

Magesi will however have to play out of their skins when they host promotion hopefuls Witbank Spurs on the 11th. The Limpopo team have managed just 11 points in 15 matches and have the worst defensive record, having conceded 24 goals.

Spurs found their rhythm towards the end of the first round and climbed up to third. Santos get back to action with a difficult match against fellow strugglers Cape Town All Stars.

Igugu leKapa have rehired former Kaizer Chiefs captain Patrick Mabhedi as their coach ahead of the resumption of action.