Tinkler Explains The Pain Of Missing Out On Keet
Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler has confirmed that he wanted to bring experienced goalkeeper Darren Keet to the club, but the deal couldn’t materialize as Sekhukhune had already signed Samuel Sapunga from Polokwane City on a pre-contract.
Sources told Sportswire that Tinkler, who worked closely with Keet during their time at Cape Town City, had hoped to reunite with the veteran shot-stopper before the start of the Betway Premiership season. However, once the Sapunga deal was finalised, the club turned to Toaster Nsabata instead.
Tinkler Wanted Keet Reunion at Sekhukhune
Tinkler’s admiration for Keet is well known. He described the 36-year-old as the most reliable goalkeeper in South Africa when it comes to dealing with aerial balls, and this point was reinforced by Durban City coach Gavin Hunt, who joined the Durban-based side instead.
“I think Darren, by a long shot, is the best keeper in South Africa when it comes to handling crosses,” said Tinkler.
“That’s Darren’s bread and butter. But Darren didn’t come to us for a number of reasons, which I prefer not to disclose.”
As Sekhukhune missed out, Keet joined City, where he has impressed under coach Gavin Hunt, helping the club reach the Carling Knockout quarter-finals after a 4-1 win over Polokwane City at Chatsworth Stadium on Friday.
Goalkeeping Woes Haunt Sekhukhune
Meanwhile, Babino Noko continues to struggle in goal. According to insiders, some at the club believe parting ways with Ali Badra Sangaré — the Ivory Coast international and Africa Cup of Nations winner — was a major mistake. Sangaré, whose contract expired at the end of last season, was seen as a dependable figure whenever called upon.
The club re-signed Nsabata from ZESCO United in Zambia, but his recent performances have come under criticism, including the 3-1 loss to Golden Arrows in the Carling Knockout round of 16 against Golden Arrows at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday.
With Renaldo Leaner sidelined for six matches now, Sekhukhune have conceded costly goals. They will hope to have former Maritzburg United goalkeeper back post the FIFA break.
Interestingly, Nsabata had previously been released by Sekhukhune before returning to the club this season.
Sapunga Struggling for Game Time
Sportswire understands that Tinkler does not fully rate Samuel Sapunga, which could explain why the Equatorial Guinea international has featured in only one match this season.
Keet Shines While Sekhukhune Falter
While Sekhukhune’s goalkeeping department remains unsettled, Keet continues to excel at Durban City, delivering another standout performance that helped his side progress to the Carling Knockout quarter-finals.
