We failed Tinkler, says Modiba

SuperSport out to bury Atletico

SuperSport United winger Aubrey Modiba, 22, feels that the players have let down their former coach, Eric Tinkler.

However, he admits that their immediate worry is to finish the season stronger.

Tinkler, who was replaced by Kaitano Tembo, resigned two weeks ago following a string of below-par results.

The former Orlando Pirates mentor lasted only eight months on the job at Matsatsantsa a Pitori.

“We feel responsible because sometimes we would do the opposite of what he wanted. We tried but it didn’t go our way,” Modiba said. “Fatigue from the CAF [Confederations Cup] played a role.

“We did not get much rest because we had to play the MTN8, CAF and the Telkom Knockout.

“Eric is a good coach, he tried and we also tried. We were used to his philosophy and it was sad he resigned. But that’s life and we have to move on,” Modiba said.

Last year’s runners-up in the Confed Cup have returned to the competition where they will face Atletico Petroleos in the preliminary round second leg at the Lucas Moripe Stadium tonight (7pm).

The Tshwane side was held to a goalless draw in the first leg by the Angolans. The team has been goal-shy of late with only one goal coming from their last five games. Modiba, who is the club’s top scorer with seven goals, aims to add to his tally and help the team get out of their rut. “I have learned to be composed

in the box.