The Premier Soccer League has named Eric Tinkler Coach of the Month, while Thulani Hlatshwayo bagged Player of the Month for March.

Cape Town City coach Tinkler has guided his side to a seven-match unbeaten run in the Absa Premiership, taking them to the top of the standings with eight league games remaining until the end of the season.

The 27-year-old saw his impressive performances for the Clever Boys last month rewarded with the Player of the Month, while helping his side go within one point of the Absa Premiership leaders Cape Town City.

The Bafana Bafana captain has hailed Wits coach Gavin Hunt for his and the team’s success this season.

‘Credit must go to coach Gavin Hunt. He has made me realise qualities in me that I never thought I had,’ Hlatshwayo said after winning the award.

‘The PSL has grown, it is a very competitive league. It is no longer a three-horse race league.

‘I think we are a much better team this season. We are going to push for the league.’

Hlatshwayo went on to say he is not surprised to have already scored four goals this season, but has reserved special praise for Lebogang Manyama, who has had a stellar campaign with Cape City this season.

‘I played as a striker at Senaone Gunners and it is not a surprise for me that I have scored a few goals this season,’ he added.

‘I am happy for Lebo (Manyama), he has been doing well. We speak a lot. I spoke to the players after the cup loss to Cosmos. We need to lift our heads and compete for the league.

The Players and Coach of the Month awards were selected by a panel of judges made up of members of the broadcast media and football analysts, and was convened by local coach Farouk Khan.