Eric Tinkler concedes class gap after Mamelodi Sundowns defeat

Despite Babina Noko remaining competitive for much of the contest, Sundowns ultimately won the match 2-0 through the impact of their substitutions in the closing stages. 

Tinkler admitted that facing the defending champions was always going to be an uphill task, acknowledging the depth and quality at the Tshwane side’s disposal. 

"The substitutions [were the difference], it's as simple as that. I think ultimately I feel for the guys that started because they did exceptionally well for 91 minutes, and that one minute that we fell asleep, especially down our left hand side, [cost us the game]," said Tinkler.

"We needed to put pressure on the ball but we didn't and we got punished, but that's the quality that Sundowns possesses, let's be honest with ourselves – you're playing against any old team, you're playing against a high-quality team in Mamelodi Sundowns.

"The players coming off the bench are exceptional footballers, all of them, so I have to congratulate them because they managed to get the goal in the 91st minute.

"But, like I said, I feel for the guys who played the 90 minutes because they worked extremely hard and I'm very, very proud of them."

ICYMI: Tinkler weighs in on Miguel Cardoso saga

Sekhukhune were forced to replace defender Tsepo Matsimbi early on following a tackle by Khulumani Ndamane and Tinkler confirmed the injury is a bit of a concern. 

"A massive disappointment for us because he was key for us with the qualities that he possesses – he had a fantastic start to the season and obviously then done his ACL [in September]," the coach added.

"This time it was a similar – I spoke to the linesman because I felt that should have been a foul but he didn't give it, saying it was a fair challenge, but it seems like he's done the other leg now.

"But we won't know until he's obviously had a scan to see the severity of the injury."