Hunt Backs Former Chiefs Duo At Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch coach Gavin Hunt has backed former Kaizer Chiefs midfielders Njabulo Blom and Darrel Matsheke to improve, praising their quality and physical strength despite concerns over their match fitness following their reunion at the club.

The duo previously worked under Hunt at Chiefs during the 2020/21 season, when they were still young players developing their careers. During his time at Amakhosi, Hunt converted Blom from a fullback into a central midfielder, while also giving Matsheke his introduction to professional football.

Both players have now reunited with the experienced coach at Stellenbosch after joining the Cape Winelands club on free transfers. However, neither had a pre-season with Stellenbosch or another club, having been without teams before their respective moves, meaning both still have work to do to regain full match fitness.

Blom made his Stellenbosch debut against his former club in Tuesday evening’s 1-1 Betway Premiership draw at FNB Stadium, playing the full 90 minutes.

The midfielder had an opportunity to demonstrate what he could bring to Hunt’s side, although his lack of recent competitive football remains a concern.

Matsheke, meanwhile, was not included in the matchday squad for the encounter against Chiefs as he continues to work towards full fitness. Having previously played under Hunt at Amakhosi, the midfielder will be hoping to get his opportunity to represent Stellenbosch once he is ready.

Speaking after the draw against Chiefs, Hunt recalled Blom’s performances during their time together at Amakhosi and explained why he believes the midfielder will become an important player for Stellenbosch as he regains his match fitness.

“I could see his (Blom’s) quality. When I had him at Chiefs, I moved him from fullback into central midfield, and he was magnificent for me. We reached the CAF Champions League semi-final, and he played a big role,” Hunt said.

“Darrel Matsheke and Blom were both magnificent for me. I had them here from when they were young players. Unfortunately, Darrel is also not fit at the moment and wasn’t even in the squad, while Blom hasn’t played for a long time, so match fitness is a concern.

“But you can see the power and quality he brings. He has strength in midfield, and that’s what we need. I know he will only get better. As the game went on, he got caught a few times, but he has power, and there’s no doubt he will be good for us.”

Hunt’s comments underline his belief in the qualities both players can bring to his team, with Blom already having made his first appearance and Matsheke still working towards his opportunity. Their previous relationship with the coach could also help them settle into his plans as they work towards regaining their best form.

Stellenbosch will now turn their attention to the Carling Knockout, with the round of 16 scheduled to take place between 24 and 27 October. The draw for the competition is set to be conducted on Wednesday evening.

The upcoming cup fixture will give Blom another opportunity to adapt to his new surroundings and build his match fitness, while Matsheke will be hoping to make his first appearance for Stellenbosch under Hunt.

The midfielder will also be looking to draw on his previous experience in the competition, having scored the winning penalty when Steve Barker’s Stellenbosch side lifted the Carling Knockout trophy in Durban during the 2023/24 season, his first stint with the club.