Tinkler’s Faith in Grobler Rewards Sekhukhune United with Late Victory

The current head coach of Sekhukhune United Eric Tinkler.

image: Diski time 

by Lwandiso Simanga 

Sekhukhune United head coach Eric Tinkler praised veteran striker Bradley Grobler after his late strike secured a narrow victory over Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership clash at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

Tinkler revealed that his technical team had been considering substituting Grobler in the final stages of the match, but he resisted the calls, insisting the 36-year-old remain on the pitch. The decision proved decisive as Grobler lived up to his “sniper” reputation by netting the match-winning goal.

“We thought about taking him off in the last ten minutes, but I said no, not today. We needed him in those moments,” Tinkler explained after the game.

The Babina Noko mentor also confirmed that defender Tsepo Matsimbi will be sidelined for two months due to injury, a blow as the club looks to maintain momentum.

The victory comes just days after Sekhukhune’s impressive 3-1 win over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium, with Tinkler pleased his side continued to push forward instead of easing off following that result.

Despite sitting top of the Premiership table after seven matches, the coach urged his players to remain grounded and consistent if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season.

“It is important we do not let success go to our heads. The league has only just begun, and we need to stay focused, both players and technical staff,” Tinkler mentioned.

With confidence growing and results falling their way, Sekhukhune United’s mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent is showing early promise. For Tinkler, however, the real challenge lies in sustaining that form across the long and demanding campaign.