Controversy flared in the second half when Arrows captain Ayanda Jiyane seemed to block Phili’s cross with an outstretched arm inside the box.
Referee Michael Mosemeng allowed play to continue, much to Hunt’s frustration. Minutes later, Angelo Van Rooi scored the match-winning goal for Arrows.
When asked if he received an explanation for the decision, Hunt replied wryly: “I can’t answer that question, sorry. What do you want me to say? It’s embarrassing – very embarrassing.”
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He emphasised the broader impact of such decisions on clubs and players.
“If the referee can say sorry – not to me – but I don’t think they are that sorry. Are they? These decisions affect livelihoods, don’t they?” Hunt said via Sportswire.
He called for the implementation of VAR in South Africa, noting repeated controversial calls in recent weeks and citing a red card to Thabo Moloisane that he felt was wrongly awarded.
Hunt joins fellow PSL coaches Manqoba Mgqithi of Abafana Be’Sthende and Miguel Cardoso of Mamelodi Sundowns in urging the league to adopt VAR to improve accountability.
With the cup disappointment behind them, Hunt now shifts focus to the Betway Premiership, where Stellenbosch face his former club, Kaizer Chiefs, at FNB Stadium this evening.