Gavin Hunt admitted Stellenbosch had let a valuable victory slip after conceding what he described as “real soft goals” in a dramatic 3-3 draw with Polokwane City in the Premiership on Tuesday night.
The match at Seshego Stadium swung repeatedly. Giovanni Philander gave the hosts an early lead before Stellenbosch responded impressively through Sinoxolo Kwayiba and Devin Titus to move 2-1 ahead.
Polokwane fought back through Surprise Manthosi and then took the lead again when Raymond Daniels scored with 15 minutes remaining. Manthosi’s equaliser was particularly frustrating for Hunt, with goalkeeper Sage Stephens failing to deal with a corner delivery.
Stellenbosch at least salvaged a point when Ashley du Preez marked his return to his hometown club from Kaizer Chiefs by scoring with his first touch.
“Nobody comes here, scores three goals against Polokwane City and draws the game,” Hunt said afterwards. “You should be winning that game.”
The coach felt his side had been the better team for much of the contest, especially in the opening half.
“I thought we were really good in the first half and had them on the ropes,” he said. “Then we conceded disappointing goals. They are physical and hard-working, but we have to defend better.”
Although Hunt accepted that an away point had some value after Stellenbosch’s defeat in their previous match, he warned that defensive improvement was essential if his side were to become consistent.
“To score three goals away from home is good, but if you can’t defend in football you have no chance,” he said. “Even at home, if you score three goals you should be winning games.”
The result leaves Stellenbosch with clear attacking encouragement but equally obvious defensive concerns ahead of Friday’s home meeting with Marumo Gallants at Athlone Stadium, giving Hunt little time to repair a backline he believes remains too vulnerable.