Oh, how lucky are the Cape Town City FC players that former coach Benni McCarthy is no longer at the helm of the Citizens.
The listless performance from City in the iKapa derby would have evoked some choice words from McCarthy in the dressing room post the 3-0 defeat to Stellenbosch FC at the Athlone Stadium on Wednesday night.
McCarthy, being a true blue Capetonian, fully appreciates what the derby means to the people of the Mother City.
It is so much more than just three points on offer, but rather the bragging rights of the region. This fully belongs to Stellenbosch FC now, with the Cape Winelands club having toasted success in seven of the last eight derbies.
City coach Eric Tinkler is feeling the heat, having yet to get one over his long-time adversary Steve Barker.
The former Bafana Bafana hardman could only look on as his team virtually disintegrated after Fawaaz Basadien’s 60m strike put Stellies 2-0 ahead.
Sanele Barns added a third, and Stellies could have had more, which included a missed penalty from Ashley Cupido.
“Stellenbosch have been playing against us like this for years. My frustration is that we kept getting beaten the same way,” Tinkler said.
“We try so many different things in training to try to avoid this situation from happening, and the fact that it keeps on happening frustrates the living daylights out of me.
“I think everything changed after the second goal. It was almost like you could see that the players gave up hope, and now we weren’t good enough in our duels – our pressing was almost non-existent.
“There was very little aggression shown from our guys, you know. And, like I said, the second goal comes from our mistake and the third goal is no different – rather clear the ball, clear your lines. Don’t take risks in silly areas, and we ended up getting punished.”
City have lost major experience over the past couple of seasons, with former club talisman Taariq Fielies, veteran defender Marc van Heerden and star centre forward Khanyisa Mayo leaving the club.
Tinkler has therefore placed the spotlight on the remainder of the senior core to step up their performances if there is to be a change in fortunes.
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“I think our mentality in particular has to change. Ownership and leadership … some of the senior players need to take some of the responsibility,” he said.
“They have to take a deep look at themselves. I also need to put up my hand and say, ‘Did I not get them to do what they were supposed to do?’”
He has also sent a strong message that he will be wielding the axe for the next match against SuperSport United at Athlone Stadium tomorrow (8pm kick-off).
“I think after this result, of course (there will be changes). It’s only normal. You get opportunities and there are others waiting for theirs, and they are holding up their hand,” Tinkler added.
“Those who are prepared to work and put in the shift, I need to reward and will get the opportunity.”