Aces sound early warning

MPUMALANGA Black Aces coach Jacob "Cellular" Sakala says their 1-0 victory over Santos during the opening match of the National First Division will form a solid foundation in the team's quest for promotion.

The match was played at Athlone Stadium on Saturday.

Sakala, who saved the Mpumalanga-based side from relegation last season, said the victory would also send a strong message to other clubs.

"The victory will motivate the players in order to enhance our promotion ambition. I am well aware that it is too early to talk about promotion, but that is the only mandate which I was given for this season. I remain confident that if we continue to play like we did against Santos, promotion will not be a problem," said the excited Sakala yesterday. "I hope that the same performance will be repeated when we host African Warriors next weekend."

• In other matches played on Saturday, Jomo Cosmos played to a 2-all draw with Witbank Spurs while Blackburn Rovers played to a 1-all draw with Thanda Royal Zulu at Buffalo City Stadium.