Tinkler outlines difficulties of protecting Sifumba from social ills  |

Cape Town City head coach Eric Tinkler has outlined the difficulties of protecting young players like Luphumlo Sifumba from social ills. 

Tinkler was speaking to members of the media following CT City’s 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates on Saturday afternoon.

The game took place at Orlando Stadium. Sifumba came on from the bench in the 85th minute, replacing Camilo Zapata. This was the 17-year-old footballer’s DStv Premiership debut. 

With the talented CT City’s starlet having made his professional debut against Bucs, Tinkler was asked how he plans to protect Sifumba from social ills.

Cape Town is well-known for the highest rates of murder, robbery, and property-related crimes.

In the first quarter of the 2022/23 crime statistics, Cape Town Central topped the list of community-reported serious crimes top 30, with 49,8%. 

About two months ago, Stellenbosch FC youngster Oshwin Andries was stabbed at a local tavern in Mandela City, Klapmuts.

It is alleged that the incident happened after an altercation.

In another incident on February 2022, former Dynamos FC player Donald Malajila, who was an uncle to ex-Mamelodi Sundowns star Cuthbert Malajila was shot dead in Cape Town, aged 29. 

The coach said it is difficult to protect the youngsters because he only spends time with them at training.

ERIC TINKLER ON DIFFICULTIES OF PROTECTING YOUNGSTERS FROM SOCIAL ILLS 

“How do you control social media? It’s impossible other than locking him in his room 24/7 and watching over him,” said Tinkler.

“What you got to have is a youngster that is grounded. And he [Luphumlo Sifumba] is a youngster that is grounded. 

“And obviously, you make him aware of those situations [social ills], but ultimately, he is the one who is going to make those decisions because I can’t control him if he is not with us at training. 

“You know, when he leaves training, he is in control of himself of what happens out there.”

The Citizens are currently placed fifth on the log standings with 35 points from 26 outings. 

CAPE TOWN CITY’S NEXT ASSIGNMENT 

City’s next assignment will be against Royal AM in a league clash away from home on Saturday, 29 April 2023. The kick-off is set for 15:00 at Chatsworth Stadium. 

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