Stellenbosch FC eye continued revival under Hunt against AmaZulu

Stellenbosch FC will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run in the Betway Premiership under head coach Gavin Hunt when they host AmaZulu FC at Danie Craven Stadium on Friday evening (7.30 kick-off).

Hunt has collected seven points from a possible nine since replacing Steve Barker earlier this season, guiding the club into a more comfortable 11th position on the table and away from immediate relegation danger. With momentum beginning to build, Hunt and his charges will be eager to capitalise and continue their upward trajectory.

Following two impressive seasons that included a historic continental campaign and the club’s maiden top-flight trophy, expectations were understandably high at the start of the current campaign. However, the early stages of the season did not unfold as planned.

A steady rebuilding process, driven by Hunt’s experience, has started to bear fruit. Nothing underlined that progress more than their recent victory over Kaizer Chiefs on their home turf — a result that not only boosted confidence but also reaffirmed belief within the squad at a crucial stage of the season.

Although missing out on the CAF Confederation Cup after reaching the semi-finals last term was a disappointment, along with their recent Nedbank Cup exit, those setbacks may ultimately benefit their league ambitions. With fewer distractions, Stellenbosch can now focus fully on securing a strong finish in the Premiership.

They face an AmaZulu side that has impressed among the mid-table contenders this season. Despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns on Tuesday, Usuthu remain firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish and will be determined to respond positively.

Historically, Stellenbosch have enjoyed the better record in this fixture, although AmaZulu claimed a 2-1 victory earlier in the season at Princess Magogo Stadium — a period when Stellies were struggling for confidence and consistency.

This time, however, the hosts appear more settled and organised, suggesting a far more competitive encounter.

Hunt will also be mindful that while his side have created some breathing space in 11th position, the margin for error remains slim. Only five points separate them from second-from-bottom Orbit College FC, meaning a poor run of results could quickly drag them back into trouble.

Despite dealing with injuries and suspensions in recent weeks, Stellenbosch now appear better positioned to mount a sustained run. A push for a top-eight finish remains realistic, and with consistency, even greater ambitions may not be entirely out of reach.

* Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow our YouTube channel The Clutch