Tinkler backs Sekhukhune to respond ahead of Pirates, Sundowns clashes

ERIC Tinkler believes his team can take confidence into their next two matches despite suffering a narrow defeat to Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday night.

IOL Sport’s Matshelane Mamabolo reports that Sekhukhune United lost 1-0 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, despite dominating large periods of the match. A debut goal by Tsehgofatso Mabasa proved enough for Stellenbosch to claim the points.

Speaking after the game, Tinkler said the result would not affect his players’ mindset ahead of crucial Betway Premiership clashes against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

“No, this result is not a setback,” he told the media.

“When you play the big ones, the players are always motivated irrespective (what transpired prior). You just wish they could be motivated for the smaller games too. But they will be bright and ready for the game against Pirates (and Sundowns).”

Big games come quickly

Sekhukhune host Orlando Pirates on Saturday before welcoming Mamelodi Sundowns on Tuesday in back-to-back fixtures that could shape the early title picture.

The loss to Stellenbosch saw Ba Bina Noko drop to fourth on the log. They were overtaken by Kaizer Chiefs, who moved into third place after beating Lamontville Golden Arrows 1-0 in a controversial result that included an Aiden McCarthy goal judged to be offside.

Despite the defeat, Tinkler focused on areas his side must improve, particularly decision-making and costly mistakes.

He has challenged his players to cut out errors as they prepare for two of the toughest tests in the league.

Familiar frustration against Stellies

Tinkler admitted that facing Stellenbosch has often brought frustration, even when his teams have played well.

“It is always difficult to bring up positives especially against Stellies because I’ve played them so many times and my record against them is terrible,” he said.

“I don’t think I’ve won a game against them and 99 percent of the games I’ve lost we have had the better chances; most possession; played better football but I’ve always ended up on the losing side.

“So it is always difficult for me to bring up the positives because the positives are still a negative because you lost a game – end of story.

“No one cares about the positives if the result is 1-0.”