Hunt backs Blom to improve after Stellenbosch debut against Chiefs

Stellenbosch FC manager Gavin Hunt believes Njabulo Blom will become an important player for the club despite the midfielder’s lack of recent match fitness.

Blom completed his first appearance for Stellenbosch in a 1-1 draw against his former club Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium, playing the entire 90 minutes in the Betway Premiership fixture.

The 26-year-old joined the Cape Winelands side in September on a season-long loan from Borneo Samarinda. Despite having been out of action for an extended period, he produced a committed and disciplined display in midfield, although he was booked in the 71st minute.

Blom is one of six former Chiefs players now at Stellenbosch. He was reunited with George Matlou, Given Msimango, Ashley Du Preez, Darrel Matsheke and Gopolang Taunyana at the club.

Hunt, who previously coached Blom at Chiefs, said he was pleased with the midfielder’s contribution and believes there is more to come.

“I mean, I had Blom while I was at Chiefs, and I moved him from a full-back position into central midfield, and he was magnificent for me,” Hunt said.

“Njabulo hasn’t played for ages, so fitness [is an issue]. But you can see the power. You can see he’s got a little bit of quality, and he’s got power in midfield, and that’s what we need. And I know he’ll only get better.

“As the game went on, he got caught a few times, but he’s got power. He’ll be good for us, there’s no doubt, I know that.”

Stellenbosch took the lead three minutes after half-time when Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored in the 48th minute.

Chiefs responded 10 minutes later, with Mduduzi Shabalala finding the net in the 58th minute to ensure the Soweto club claimed a point.

The result leaves Stellenbosch seventh in the league standings, with 11 points from their opening eight matches.