South Africa: Eric Tinkler Slams Polokwane City’s ‘ugly’ style after Sekhukhune United defeat

Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler has launched a scathing critique of Polokwane City’s approach to the game, branding their style of play “very ugly” following a 1-0 defeat at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium – his first league loss of the season.

The setback ended Babina Noko’s unbeaten run and saw them slip to second place on the table as Mamelodi Sundowns capitalised with a 4-1 victory over Richards Bay.

The tense Limpopo derby was decided by a single strike, with Rise and Shine holding firm to deny their visitors a route back into the match.

Speaking on SuperSport TV after the final whistle, Tinkler expressed frustration at both the demanding schedule and Polokwane City’s tactics, which he believes undermined the spectacle of the contest.

He said his team’s recent fixture congestion had left little room for meaningful preparation.

I only played two games [in three days] so what can I fix you know when games are this tight to each other it’s difficult so what you can do is video analysis, Tinkler explained. So now we will obviously go back we have a week until our next game, we can start fixing certain elements of our game.

The former Bafana Bafana midfielder then turned his attention to the playing style of Phuthi Mohafe’s side, criticising their defensive posture and reliance on long balls.

When teams start playing low block, very ugly football because that is what they play ugly football, long ball, ball in behind you don’t pick up the second ball, and you get one chance you score but that’s football you better deal with that, he added.

Tinkler’s remarks highlight a growing tension in the South African top flight between teams employing expansive, possession-based tactics and those favouring a more pragmatic approach.

While Sekhukhune United’s coach acknowledged that his side must adapt and overcome such challenges, his comments underline his frustration at seeing his team’s unbeaten record ended in such fashion.

Sekhukhune now have a full week to prepare for their next outing, which Tinkler believes will allow him to address the shortcomings exposed in Polokwane.

However, his stinging assessment of their “ugly” style is likely to spark debate among supporters and pundits alike over the merits and aesthetics of different football philosophies in the Premier Soccer League.

This defeat leaves Babina Noko with work to do to reclaim top spot, while Rise and Shine will take confidence from their resilient display in a tightly contested Limpopo clash.