Cape Town City coach Eric Tinkler voiced his frustration and used sharp language following his team’s concession of all three goals from set pieces during their Betway Premiership clash against Golden Arrows on Saturday.
The team found it challenging to handle the initial cross, which was headed down by Ryan Moon. Themba Mantshinyane seized the opportunity, putting the first goal on the board. Moon then switched gears from assist provider to scorer, capitalizing on a cross from Siyanda Mthanti with a header that doubled their advantage.
City fought back in the second half, finding the net through Gabriel Amato and substitute Amadou Soukouna. However, they were unable to secure a draw, as Nqobeko Dlamini restored Arrows’ lead with a goal resulting from a defensive error.
Tinkler’s disappointment was clear regarding the team’s performance, especially their defending during set pieces. “The players demonstrated a lack of aggression,” he remarked. “You can’t just stand there and watch the ball; you need to attack it. Winning the first, second, and third balls is crucial. It’s imperative.”
He continued, “All three goals originated from second-phase play. For the first goal, the ball bounced three times without being cleared. There was a significant lack of aggression during set pieces, and no one took charge.”
Although City is not currently facing immediate relegation threats, Tinkler expressed concerns about the team’s inconsistent performances. “I’ve been worried since the beginning,” he admitted. “Our fate depends on results, whether we win or lose. Losing is definitely troubling.”
Despite acquiring several high-profile players in the off-season, City has been unable to establish a steady rhythm and now sits in 11th place in the league. Soukouna, one of the new acquisitions, made a significant impact after coming off the bench, but Tinkler underscored the necessity of effective set-piece defense.
“I’m not altering my system for just one player. Does it work for everyone? No,” Tinkler stated.
“I brought him in believing it was the right decision. Did he score? Was it a sound choice? Yes.
“But ultimately, you have to defend the damn corner. It’s really that straightforward.”
