Stellenbosch boss Gavin Hunt praises former Kaizer Chiefs youngster after debut

Stellenbosch FC head coach Gavin Hunt has praised Gopolang Taunyana’s first-team debut but says the 20-year-old will need time as he continues his development.

Taunyana joined Stellenbosch FC this month after establishing himself in the development ranks at Kaizer Chiefs. He was handed his senior debut in Tuesday’s 3-3 Betway Premiership draw away to Polokwane City.

The result gave Hunt’s side their first point of the season, having suffered defeat in their opening league match. Taunyana’s performance impressed Hunt, who believes the youngster has significant potential but must be carefully managed as he adapts to senior football.

“The youngster, yeah, fantastic,” said Hunt.

“He’s got huge potential, but he’s a kid, isn’t he? I think I’ve given six, seven debuts in the last two games. That’s us. We’re going to have to do that.

“He’s got huge potential in a difficult, difficult game. I tried to give him more protection tonight and play him with an extra cover there, which I did. I thought it worked. So, give him a little bit more.

“The other one, Luthando [Vena] as well it’s his second game. Raoul Daniels came on second game; he played last week. Other one Orlando didn’t come with you know. So, these guys, it is what it is.”

Hunt’s comments highlighted the number of inexperienced players currently being introduced into the Stellenbosch FC team. He said he had handed out six or seven debuts across the past two matches, underlining the transitional phase facing the squad.

Taunyana’s arrival from the Kaizer Chiefs development system has added another young option to Hunt’s group. Despite the demanding circumstances of his first appearance, the midfielder was trusted to play in a match that produced six goals and saw Stellenbosch FC claim their first result of the campaign.

Hunt also referred to Luthando Vena, who made his second appearance, and Raoul Daniels, who came off the bench for his second game after featuring the previous week. He added that Orlando was unavailable for the match.

The draw at Polokwane City marked a positive response from Stellenbosch FC after their opening defeat, although Hunt’s focus remains on helping the club’s young players adjust to the demands of the Betway Premiership.

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