Bradley Grobler was given compassionate leave and missed Stellenbosch’s 2-0 victory over Durban City in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday.

With Bradley absent, midfielder Sinoxolo Kwayiba rose to the occasion, netting both goals to secure Stellies’ place in the quarter-finals against AmaZulu.

Les Grobler was a prolific scorer during the 1980s and 1990s in the National Soccer League (NSL) period. He is particularly remembered for his dazzling time with Moroka Swallows, forming a formidable strike partnership with Thomas “Heshila” Hlongwane, which helped the Dube Birds clinch the 1989 Bob Save Super Bowl, noted for a remarkable 5-1 replay victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, and the 1991 BP Top 8, where they triumphed over Jomo Cosmos 2-1.

After concluding his playing career, Grobler began coaching at Boksburg in 1992, later becoming an assistant coach at Silver Stars in 2006 under his former teammate Owen da Gama.

Later, he took on the role of Head of Development and coached the DStv Diski Challenge team at Highlands Park, nurturing numerous local talents.

After Wednesday’s match, Hunt reminisced about his experiences playing against the elder Grobler and extended heartfelt condolences to his current striker.

“I attempted to reach out to him [Bradley] today [on Wednesday],” Hunt mentioned.

“We’ll reassess the situation on Thursday and see how he feels. It was evident that we didn’t substitute anyone up front, and the other striker [Solomon Agbasi] hasn’t obtained his work permit; I’m not sure why. Making changes is problematic.

“Nonetheless, I sent my condolences to him and, of course, to Bradley and his family.”

Hunt further elaborated: “I knew his father quite well—we faced each other many times when he played for Rangers and Moroka Swallows. We were about the same age.”

The relationship between Hunt and Bradley Grobler extends across multiple clubs, having previously collaborated at SuperSport United, where the striker scored 28 goals and provided four assists in 89 appearances under Hunt’s mentorship.

Hunt additionally tapped into his own experiences with loss to stress the need for patient support.

“I have known Bradley for many years now. This is painful, and I told him, ‘Get on the plane and see how it goes. If you feel like playing tonight [on Wednesday]…’” Hunt added.

“My father passed away two years ago, and on that same day, I was sitting on the bench. Just to add context.

“I lost my father on matchday [while I was at SuperSport United]. Anyway, we all go through this. We just have to stand by him and remain strong, offering him our support, and allowing him the time he needs since he was very close to his dad.”