Hunt Suffer Mabasa And Makhubu Setbacks
Stellenbosch coach Gavin Hunt has expressed his disappointment at losing striker Wonderboy Makhubu, praising the forward for his outstanding performance against Kaizer Chiefs.
Makhubu, who is on loan from Sekhukhune United, was sent off against his former club Magesi FC in a league match on Wednesday.
As a result, Hunt will be without one of his key attacking options when Stellenbosch face Golden Arrows in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday. Makhubu will also miss next Tuesday’s league clash against Amakhosi.
Hunt admitted the suspension is a major setback, particularly given Makhubu’s recent form — including his influential display when Stellenbosch knocked Chiefs out in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32.
“It’s a huge blow [to lose Makhubu]. We’re really struggling up front, so it’s a huge blow, especially for the next two games,” said Hunt.
“The cup game [against Golden Arrows on Saturday] is a cup game, but it’s a blow for the Chiefs game [next Tuesday]. He was so good against Chiefs two or three weeks ago, so it’s a blow.”
Hunt added that winger Faiz Abrahams has recently returned from a lengthy layoff and is still regaining match fitness.
“We’ve had Faiz back for about two weeks now, and we don’t really have a wide player like him. I like him; I think he’s shown a huge upturn,” Hunt said.
“He’s not really match fit and has been out for a long time, but he showed glimpses of his quality, and that’s what we’re about.”
The coach also provided an update on Tshegofatso Mabasa, who joined from Orlando Pirates during the January transfer window but has featured sparingly despite scoring on his debut.
“Mabasa has a bit of a medical problem that, between the medical department and me, we’re trying to get him fit,” said Hunt.
“It’s a blow not having him, because tonight [Wednesday] was the perfect night for a player like him.
“He’s a player who, if he gets the ball in the box, turns and hits, and those normally go in.
“It’s been a bit of a blow not having him available. I hope he will be back for the next two games, especially with us having a striker out as well.”
