Tinkler says Durban City played into Stellenbosch’s strengths in Carling Knockout exit

Eric Tinkler believes Durban City’s early Carling Knockout elimination was partly self-inflicted after Stellenbosch FC capitalised on their mistakes to win 2-0 at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday.

The Citizens had only recently returned from continental duty, securing qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages with a two-legged victory over AS Port Louis of Mauritius last weekend.

Tinkler made several changes to his starting line-up in an effort to refresh the team, but felt Stellenbosch FC were better equipped to manage the match and impose their preferred style.

“Stellenbosch are a team that obviously looks to play off the mistakes. We gave away too many turnovers, and that is obviously their strength,” said Tinkler.

“They look to play on the turnovers; they look to play the long ball and get it in behind, get the ball in the box, and we found it difficult because we ended up going to their brand of football.”

The Durban City manager sympathised with his players after a demanding period, saying the effects of mental fatigue had influenced the performance. He stressed that the changes had not been made because of concerns over the squad’s physical condition.

“I’m very proud of everything they’ve done. It’s not easy; people assume they’re machines, and they’re not. They are human beings, and there’s a thing called mental fatigue,” Tinkler said.

“We don’t make changes because of the physical – we know physically players are fine. It’s more the mental side.”

However, Tinkler acknowledged that some individuals had failed to produce performances matching their usual standards.

“Sometimes players’ performances – I don’t want to mention names, but certain performances today were not to the standard of that player,” he added.

“I know what his qualities are, but today his performance wasn’t where it should be, and it’s not a physical problem – it’s more mental.”

Stellenbosch FC reached the quarter-finals through two goals from striker Sinoxolo Kwayiba, although coach Gavin Hunt was keen to underline that the result did not reflect a particularly impressive all-round display from his side.

Hunt also said there would be little opportunity to celebrate the cup victory, with Stellenbosch FC due to return to Betway Premiership action against Chippa United on Saturday.

The Stellenbosch FC manager additionally expressed concerns about the fitness of his players as they prepare for the league fixture.