Gavin Hunt Shares Thoughts Following Stellenbosch Win, Extends Support to Grobler

After Stellenbosch FC's hard-earned 2-0 victory over Durban City in the Carling Knockout Cup, head coach Gavin Hunt took time to reflect on the match and to express his heartfelt condolences to striker Bradley Grobler, who is mourning the loss of his father, Les Grobler.

The team from the Western Cape clinched a spot in the quarter-finals with their win at Chatsworth Stadium on the evening of October 28, 2026. However, the match held deeper emotional significance due to the unfortunate news of Les Grobler's passing.

A revered figure in South African football and a former Moroka Swallows player, Les's death has elicited tributes from the football community.

Bradley Grobler missed the game as he was granted compassionate leave to grieve for his father. Hunt, who has had a long-standing relationship with the seasoned striker, assured that the club would provide support during this challenging time.

The Stellenbosch coach also shared his connection to the Grobler family, noting his familiarity with Les from their playing days. 

Hunt offered his sympathies to Bradley and his family, highlighting the necessity of allowing the striker ample time to mourn. He also reflected on his own experience with loss, which gives him insight into the emotional struggles that accompany such a tragedy.

His message emphasized that while the world of football is competitive, the well-being of players and their families remains paramount.

On the field, Stellenbosch had to exercise patience before breaking through against a resilient Durban City team.

The first half lacked clear scoring opportunities, as both teams battled to find the pivotal moment. Durban City posed a threat after halftime, but Stellenbosch gradually ramped up the pressure towards the end of the match.

Sinoxolo Kwayiba eventually put Stellenbosch ahead in the 84th minute, finishing a pass from substitute Kazeem Adeyanju. He added another goal in stoppage time, again assisted by Adeyanju, sealing a 2-0 win.

This victory marked an end to three consecutive draws between the two teams and secured Stellenbosch's place in the last eight.

Hunt's squad will now focus on their quarter-final match against AmaZulu FC as they aim for another Carling Knockout title.

Having won the competition in 2023, this latest win keeps their cup aspirations alive.

Nonetheless, the poignant message regarding Bradley Grobler underscores the human aspects of football, emphasizing support and compassion beyond wins and trophies.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2115741737637335051?a=dmzH5pKUqsgH5-AdsDU&s=19