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Bitter homecoming for Chilli Boyz

There was no happy homecoming for South African top-flight football new boys Chippa United on Sunday as they slumped 2-1 against Bloemfontein Celtic in a League Cup first round tie.

Prevented from using their Philippa Stadium base in a Cape Town township this season due to inadequate floodlights for TV and some below-par facilities, United were allowed to switch the fixture from another ground in the city.

A large crowd braved wet, cold conditions to cheer the Chilli Boyz and they responded by taking the lead on the hour mark when Buyani Sali netted after a blunder by Cameroon-born goalkeeper Patrick Tignyemb.

But poor travellers Celtic responded to level through Dominic Isaacs and Jacky Motshegwa snatched victory six minutes from time with a powerful low, close-range shot.

“We played too deep at times and missed chances after taking the lead,” lamented losing coach Mboneni Sikhakhane, “but we are improving and I expect better results soon.”

Chippa joined the 16-team elite this season after becoming the first South African football club to win promotion from the third and second tiers in consecutive seasons.

Formed by a former security guard whose financial break came when he recovered stolen trollies for a national supermarket chain, Chippa have discoverd life at the top is tough with one league win in seven outings.

Ayanda Dlamini struck in stoppage time to snatch a 2-1 home victory for AmaZulu over Platinum Stars, who went ahead through Thuso Phala only for Innocent Mkhabela to concede an own goal in damp, grey Durban.

Bidvest Wits, Free State Stars, Maritzburg United, holders Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United have also qualified for the quarter-finals with the last place to be filled Tuesday when Mamelodi Sundowns host Pretoria University.