CHIPPA United midfielder Siyabulela Shai says there was no champagne opened up in the dressing room after last Friday night's win over Black Leopards.

The 1-0 victory at Philippi, thanks to Shai's early goal, enabled the Cape side to open up a 10-point gap over Leopards at the top of the National First Division.

With just four rounds of matches to go, Chippa now just need three points to secure outright promotion to the Absa Premiership, although with a superior goal difference, two points may even be enough.

Chippa could be crowned champions without kicking a ball, if Leopards lose to United FC tomorrow.

But until the title is mathematically secured, the Chilli Boys know they still have work to do.

"It was nice to contribute to the team's cause by scoring a goal in such an important game," Shai said. "But it's too early to celebrate because we are not guaranteed anything yet, so we have to keep on working hard."

The young midfielder, on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns, has been pleased with the way things have gone for him this season down in the Mother City.

"Everything has gone well and I have been happy with my performances. I came here to work hard and to try and get more experience, and that is what I have done. Chippa are a very well run club, no players ever have complaints, we are well looked after."

Shai credits coach Vladislav Heric, as well as some of the team's senior players, for the good form he has shown this season.