'Last season we were hunters, now we are the hunted' - CT City boss explains inconsistent form

Cape Town City head coach Eric Tinkler says he warned his charges about the difficulties of living up to the same standard as last season, as they have now become the hunted as opposed to the hunters.

The Citizens finished in second place in the DStv Premiership, behind champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2021/22 campaign. This season, however, has been a rather disappointing campaign.

Tinkler and his charges have accumulated a low 23-points as they sit 11th in the standings, five points ahead of bottom of the table Marumo Gallants.

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The 52-year-old says he made his players aware of the difficulties they may come across this season as they have a target on their backs following last seasons strong campaign as they are underdogs no more.

However, he admitted that his message may 'not have been strong enough following the underwhelming campaign so far.

"You know, I made the players aware right at the beginning of the season that you finished second in the league (last season). This season, the league is going to be tougher for you," Tinkler told reporters.

"Why? Because you're a target. Last season we were the hunters, this season, we are now the hunted.

"That's just the fact, so if you want to achieve what you achieved last season, you're going to have to work even harder than what you did last season. 

"I don't think that really struck home. Now, yes, the players are starting to realise that they are in a fight, but I think it's creating that mentality right from the offset.

With the Nedbank Cup round of 32 clash against Royal AM on Sunday, it can be an opportunity for Tinkler to introduce fresh players and give minutes to those who have not had much game