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Cape Town - Eric Tinkler says he needs to change the mindset of his Maritzburg United players if they are to have any chance of avoiding relegation at the end of the season.
Tinkler took charge of the Team of Choice last week - after the departure of Muhsin Ertugral - and went down 1-0 to league leaders Wits in his first game in charge on Friday.
Maritzburg remain rooted to the foot of the table with 11 points after 19 games and are now five points from safety with 11 games still to play this season.
Tinkler is confident the KZN side can still avoid the drop but feels he will have to work more on the mental side of the game with his players if they are to be successful.
The former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town mentor said: "I'm a winner. I want to achieve things. I want to see this team staying in the league.
"It will be a big shame if this team was to go down. They are a good team with a good support base.
"The psychological factor is going to be key in our situation. Right now, it is all about working on the mindset of the players.
"We can train and do all the tactical work, but it is key to instil a positive mindset into my players."
Maritzburg United next host Polokwane City in an Absa Premiership clash at Harry Gwala Stadium on Friday.
