DailySun
Eric Tinkler, the coach of Cape Town City, voiced his dissatisfaction in strong terms after his side allowed all three goals to stem from set pieces in their Betway Premiership clash against Golden Arrows on Saturday.
The team struggled with the initial cross, which was headed down by Ryan Moon. Themba Mantshinyane seized on the loose ball to score the opening goal. Moon then switched roles, becoming a scorer as he header the ball in from a cross by Siyanda Mthanti, doubling the advantage.
City attempted a comeback in the second half, scoring through Gabriel Amato and substitute Amadou Soukouna. However, they were unable to secure a draw, as Nqobeko Dlamini regained the lead for Arrows with a goal after a defensive mistake.
Tinkler was clearly disheartened by his team’s performance, especially their defensive efforts during set pieces. “The players were lacking aggression,” he pointed out. “You can’t just stand around watching the ball; you must challenge it. Securing the first, second, and third balls is crucial. It’s fundamental.”
He continued, “All three goals resulted from second-phase play. For the first goal, the ball bounced three times without anyone clearing it. There was a significant lack of aggression during set pieces, and no one took charge.”
Although City is not facing immediate relegation threats, Tinkler expressed his worries about the team’s inconsistent performances. “I’ve been concerned from the beginning,” he admitted. “Our success depends on results, whether we win or lose. Losing is worrisome.”
Despite bringing in several notable players during the off-season, City has struggled to establish a steady rhythm and currently finds themselves in 11th place in the league. Soukouna, one of the new signings, made a significant impression after coming off the bench, but Tinkler stressed the need for strong set-piece defenses.
“I won’t alter my system for just one player. Does it meet everyone’s needs? No,” Tinkler responded.
“I signed him believing it was the right time. Did he score? Was it the right choice? Yes.
“But at the end of the day, you must defend the damn corner. It’s as straightforward as that.”
