Stellenbosch FC coach Gavin Hunt remained defiant despite a 3-0 loss to CR Belouizdad. The Maroons now turn their attention to a massive Nedbank Cup last 32 fixture against Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday. Photo: Backpagepix Gavin Hunt rued the chances not taken by Stellenbosch in their 3–0 loss to CR Belouizdad on Sunday in a CAF Confederation Cup Group C encounter at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
The victory saw the Algerian giants entrench their position at the top of the group standings after completing the double over Stellenbosch FC, who now drop into fourth position. The tie was coach Hunt’s first home game in charge of the Maroons. “We didn’t play badly at all.
We played on the front foot and did everything except the final ball,” coach Hunt said after the match. “They came into our half three times and scored three times; that’s a bit disappointing. Was the result a true reflection?
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I don’t think so.” He added: “It was good that we gave a few players a chance so we can get settled before the important games come up. “There were some good opportunities. There has been a lot of movement – even before I arrived – so it’s important to play people fit.
“The most important thing for us is the league, and it’s important to get mileage in the players’ legs. We are closer to where we want to be. I thought there was a good improvement from last Sunday to this Sunday.” Iheb Belhoucini of CR Belouizdad celebrates scoring against Stellenbosch FC.
Photo: Backpagepix The loss dropped Stellies down to fourth in their group on four points with two matchdays left in the round-robin stage. They are still to face Singida Black Stars – who are also on four points but ahead of the Cape-based side on superior goal difference – and AS Otohô, who have six points. Following their victory, CRB lead the group with nine points. Before returning to continental action, however, Stellies face Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday in an all-important last 32 clash in the Nedbank Cup.
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