Gavin Hunt: ‘I won’t be low when Durban City loses’

It appears the days of touchline theatrics are over for South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) veteran coach Gavin Hunt.

The former BidVest Wits FC mentor is known for expressing himself during games. Depending on the action during PSL matches, he at times jumps, locks his palms around the back of his head and even throws himself to the ground.

However, Hunt has now made a bold statement about how he will be reacting to victories and defeats in the Betway Premiership. He seeks to manage expectations in his team.

The well-known coach made the claim while looking forward to Friday’s meeting with Polokwane City in a Carling Knockout Cup game.

“I will not be too excited when we win, and I will not be too low when we lose,” Hunt said.

The former Kaizer Chiefs tactician acknowledged the physical and mental challenges that are involved when playing against the Rise and Shine. The two teams have already met in the Betway Premiership this season. That game ended goalless.

“They are a difficult side, they have a strong, strong physical side… so yes, we’ll have to be ready,” the coach for the rookies said.

How Gavin Hunt wants his team to approach Polokwane City

Hunt says he wants his team to approach the cup game at Chatsworth Stadium in the manner it did against Magesi FC over the weekend.

The newcomers came from behind to beat the opponents from Bloemfontein 3-1 in what was a demonstration of strong character.

“I thought we played with good energy, good attitude. Tenacity was good,” Hunt said.

“Once we got the equalizer, the match opened up for us… Coming back like that from 1-0 to 2-1, it was a magnificent effort and togetherness from the team, and that was important.”

However, the former SuperSport United handler says the Magesi game is in the past.