MOTEBANG Sera’s early goal against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) on Saturday was a crucial goal for Bloemfontein Celtic as they hammered the visitors 1-0 to secure three points in the DSTV Premiership match played behind closed doors at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium.

The hosts took the lead just two minutes into the game after TTM were caught sleeping at the back.

The crafty Sera effectively escaped the attention of TTM defenders Tebogo Thangwane and Ayanda Nkili before slamming home the lone goal of the match.

Siwelele were reduced to 10 men in the 62nd minute after Ronald Pfumbidzai who had already been booked, dived in on Thabo Rakhale and was shown a second yellow card.

John Maduka immediately made a change and withdrew striker Sera and brought in Sifiso Ngobeni at the left wingback to shut the back door.

The Lesotho international had scored an impressive goal against defending DSTV Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns two weeks ago but was ruled offside by Assistant Referee Andile Mncwango who was later suspended for poor judgment.

After Ngobeni came in, Celtic made a double change which saw Victor Letsoalo replacing Harris Tchilimbou up front and Boy de Jongh’s place being taken by Siphelele Luthuli to fortify the midfield.

The change caused a lot of headaches for Maduka's charges who have been winless in their last eight matches.  

Celtic who entered the game at position 13 have now slipped up to the 12th spot after the weekend victory.

The Bloemfontein outfit enjoyed a couple of days’ rest after their clash with Chippa United on Wednesday was postponed due to bad weather conditions.