Ertugral's Aces making strides
Aces captain Zamuxolo Ngalo banged in a header for his side in the 31st minute to secure all three points for the hosts.
Aces shot stopper Jackson Mabokgwane was sent off for dangerous play in first-half injury time, but his team were able to hold on, handing the Brazilians their first defeat of the league season.
“We were disciplined, organised, very good,” said Aces coach Muhsin Ertugral.
“In the first half, both teams played very good football, and I think the standard in South African football is very high.
“That’s what we should be looking for more and more.”
Downs coach Pitso Mosimane was understandably less satisfied with the result.
“We’re freezing in the second half and not getting combination plays, so we need to work hard,” Mosimane said.
“We did not play well. Our tactics were not right, and the first person who needs to raise his hand is the coach.
“We’re playing floating balls without a tall striker, and we made a few mistakes. It’s very disappointing.”
ANA