Aces gain momentum for a top-three finish

Mbesuma scored from the penalty spot early in the second half to hand Aces their eighth win in an impressive season thus far.

The victory earned them a second spot on the PSL behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on a two-goal difference following the Brazilians 0-0 draw against Kaizer Chiefs, also on Saturday night. Wits are playing today and could claim top spot if they beat Chippa in PE.

Aces coach Mushin Ertugral, who has been working hard with the team over the festive season, had to do without both Jackson Mabokgwane and Aubrey Ngoma, who are now only one step away from full match fitness.

He has developed a fine squad with an emphasis on versatility and introduced the seasoned professional Bryce Moon who covered at right back but was pushed slightly forward in an impressive winger debut.

The game dragged a bit with both teams battling to settle down and their defensive units dominating proceedings. Polokwane started with an unusual 3-3-3-1 formation while Ertugral went with his favourite 3-5-2. “Donna” Tukane was his usual elusive playmaker and he had the first two chances of the game when he tested Chigova from range. Polokwane sat back and their game plan seemed to be based on earning a point by not conceding and often the entire 11 players were in their own half – with only the odd sporadic counter raid in AmaZayoni’s half. Aces prodded but failed to prize open the “Rise and Shine” defence in a lacklustre first half.

Bryce Moon was easily the best player in the first half and his sniping runs down the right flank were a highlight for the small crowd.

He whipped out some delightful crosses but Aces could not finish the move although Mbesuma did come closest, but his ferocious shot was blocked.

Aces introduced Aubrey Modiba for Tukane at the start of the second half in an effort to put more pace in the game.

AmaZayoni were rewarded with their more adventurous approach when Bryce Moon charged into the area in the 51st minute and saw his shot stopped by Sibusiso Mbonani’s hand and the referee immediately pointed to the spot.

The big Mbesuma calmly slotted home to give Aces a 1-0 lead and also extended his lead in the PSL’s top marksman to eight for the season. The goal stunned Polokwane and the Limpopo outfit was forced to be more offensive and came close to equalising in the 70th minute when Puleng Tlolane just missed the target from the edge of the area.

With Rise and Shine pushing forward they often left big gaps at the back which made for an exciting finish. Judas Moseamedi, who came on for Masina, exploited the lack of players at the back and played a delightful ball to another substitute, Thabo Nodada who missed a golden opportunity to net his first-ever PSL goal in the 78th minute.

Nodada again found space a few minutes later but his shot was well saved from the Polokwane keeper. Julio Leal’s team tried hard to find an equaliser in the final 10 minutes but ultimately the composed Aces defence shut out any opportunity, although two minutes into injury time they got a fright when Polokwane just missed the target.

Aces will be delighted with the victory and they now have some serious momentum to push for a top-three finish.