Tinkler await Gallants in first Sekhukhune test

Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler will face Marumo Gallants in his first challenge in new surroundings as the two sides prepare to battle at the Dr Molemela Stadium in their latest Betway Premiership assignment on Wednesday evening.

Kick-off is at 7:30pm (CAT, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

Tinkler has been tasked to guide Sekhukhune back into the right column, while the club head into their next game on the back of two consecutive defeats in the league.

Babina Noko recorded blanks in ties against Mamelodi Sundowns and Richards Bay respectively, however, the club maintained fourth position on the log during his period.

Sekhukhune last tasted victory on the 22nd of February, where they bagged a 1-0 win against Chippa United at the Buffalo City Stadium.

Gallants have likewise battled to yield positive results in recent weeks and suffered a 1-0 loss against Stellenbosch FC last time out.

However, Gallants also recorded four losses in their last six league matches and have slumped down to 14th place on the Betway Premiership table.

WHAT WAS SAID

Reflecting on his side’s schedule, Marumo Gallants coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes that players need to be protected during the business end of the period.

“We don’t have to forget that the players are the ones who are making the show. If our players are tired and cannot give anything on the pitch, football will not be a show anymore,” Ouaddou said.

“And we don’t have to forget that players are the first people on the pitch, and we have to take care of them. It’s very important because we play every three days and we are not robots, the players are not robots. And to run and give their best, they need a little bit of rest.

In news that made headlines in PSL football this week, Sekhukhune officially confirmed Eric Tinkler as their new head coach.

“Sekhukhune United football club is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Tinker as Head Coach, he will immediately take the reins and lead the team,” Sekhukhune said in a statement.

“Tinkler is an accomplished coach, with over 30 years of experience in the game. He holds Uefa and CAF A Licenses with numerous other prestigious coaching badges.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marumo Gallants: Gabadinho Mhango – The Malawian is one of Gallant’s most experienced players, particularly in their frontline. Known for having the ability to produce the spectacular, Sekhukhune will be forced to keep a keen eye on the ex-Orlando Pirates star.

Sekhukhune United: Chibuike Ohizu – While goals have been hard to come by for Babina Noko in recent times, Ohizu remained a constant in the club’s attacking department. After getting his name on the scoresheet against Richards Bay, Ohizu will no doubt look to do the same against Gallants this week.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Last five league results

2021/22 Sekhukhune United 0-1 Marumo Gallants

2021/22 Marumo Gallants 2-2 Sekhukhune United

2022/23 Sekhukhune United 3-2 Marumo Gallants

2022/23 Marumo Gallants 2-0 Sekhukhune United

2024/25 Sekhukhune United 1-0 Marumo Gallants