Durban City coach Gavin Hunt appears to be feeling the sting of missing out on signing striker Knox Mutizwa, who came back to haunt his side when it mattered most.

Hunt was reportedly interested in bringing in the former Golden Arrows striker, but for reasons unknown, the move never materialised. Instead, Mutizwa joined Richards Bay, where he has rediscovered his form and become a key figure for the KwaZulu-Natal club.

Speaking to Sportswire earlier this week, Mutizwa expressed his gratitude to Hunt for the role he played in helping him begin his career in South Africa during their time at Bidvest Wits.

“I’ll forever be grateful to Coach Hunt for bringing me to South Africa back then,” Mutizwa said.

However, Mutizwa never featured in a competitive match under Hunt before moving to Golden Arrows, where he went on to establish himself as a club legend. He left Arrows as their all-time leading goal scorer, with 63 goals in 231 appearances.

Now at Richards Bay, the 32-year-old has continued his impressive form, scoring four goals in three matches, including one in the 3-1 victory over Durban City in the Carling Knockout quarterfinals at Umhlathuze Sports Ground on Saturday.

The win saw Natal Rich Boys advance to the Carling Knockout semifinals for the third consecutive season.

When asked about missing out on Mutizwa after the match, Hunt visibly held back his emotions.

“I’m not going to go there,” said Hunt.

“I have strong feelings about that, but I’m not going to go there. He’s not with us.”

Pressed further on how close the deal came, the former SuperSport United coach again declined to comment.

“I’m not going to go there, sorry,” he repeated.

Hunt will now turn his attention to next weekend’s Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs at Moses Mabhida Stadium, as he looks to refocus his side after their cup exit.