Babina Noko's latest setback - a defeat to Golden Arrows - has deepened concerns, as the Limpopo side slip from third to sixth in the Betway Premiership standings. What once looked like a campaign heading towards a strong finish has now turned into a battle to stay competitive in the top half.

The numbers paint a worrying picture. Sekhukhune are now winless in five matches across all competitions, a stark contrast to their impressive start to the 2025/26 season when they were firmly positioned among the league's frontrunners.

Tinkler did not shy away from addressing the issue, pointing to a mental drop-off within his squad.

"It's a disappointing second half of the season," he admitted via Sportswire.

"We aren't performing with the confidence and belief we had at the beginning. Now, it's about trying to rediscover that composure."

A key concern for the coach has been his side's inability to remain calm in decisive moments, particularly in possession.

"There were moments in the game where we didn't show composure; we panicked on the ball," he added.

Despite the downturn in results, Tinkler insists that Sekhukhune's defensive structure remains largely intact. Instead, he believes individual errors - especially in possession - are proving costly.

"They didn't really pose a major threat, especially in possession. We dealt with them comfortably," he said.

"It was just that one moment - a lapse of concentration in possession - and you give it away."

The team's struggles in front of goal have also contributed to their slide, with their last league victory coming back in February against bottom-placed Orbit College.

With the FIFA international break offering a brief pause, Tinkler is hoping to use the time to reset both mentally and tactically ahead of a crucial fixture against AmaZulu in April.

"We need to win our next game to get our belief back," he emphasized.

For Sekhukhune, the upcoming clash could prove pivotal - not just for their standings, but for stopping a season that is in danger of slipping away.

Sandile Khumalo returns to Black Leopards on loan