Tinkler's inconsistent selections dribble Pitso

Pitso Mosimane is still trying to figure out how to plan against Orlando Pirates' tinkering coach Eric Tinkler.

Tinkler, who has had some pressure eased with victories in Bucs' last two matches, probably confuses many other coaches, not just Mosimane, with his inconsistent selections.

One day he is playing Thandani Ntshumayelo in central midfield and the next it's Yasser Mugerwa or Tshepo Gumede. The next day he plays Edwin Gyimah or Rooi Mahamutsa in central defence.

So as leaders Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to face the Buccaneers at Orlando Stadium tomorrow (7.30pm), Mosimane conceded he had no clue what to expect.

"Their confidence is growing, but they just don't find their rhythm properly. I think it's because they fiddle a lot with the team. You never know who is going to play. When I assess and analyse, I don't even know who will play," Mosimane said.

Sundowns are six points clear at the top of the table after an emphatic 5-2 victory against Free State Stars on Sunday.

They are ruthless going forward, something to worry about for the shaky Pirates defence, which will be without the suspended Thabo Matlaba.

The hosts may be in for a long night having to contain the likes of Khama Billiat and Keagan Dolly. "We started slowly [against Free State Stars]. The goal they scored was a wake-up call.

"We had to get our rhythm. I hope we can keep that consistency," Mosimane said.