Stellenbosch FC coach Gavin Hunt has lifted the lid on the tactical “curveball” that saw his side face Orlando Pirates without a recognised striker, a gamble that left fans and pundits alike questioning the team sheet at Athlone Stadium
The Winelands-based side suffered a 2-0 defeat against Pirates in the Betway Premiership at Athlone Stadium on Tuesday night. Stellies dropped crucial points in their push for a finish in the top eight after having inconsistent performances in the first round of the 2025/26 season.
Stellenbosch find themselves in the bottom half of the log standings, a position that is unfamiliar after the club finished in the top half of the league table in the past three seasons.
The 2023 Carling Knockout Cup champions are currently occupying 10th spot on the log with 32 points in 27 games. They are three points behind Golden Arrows, who are in the eighth position.
WHY STELLENBOSCH FACED PIRATES WITHOUT A NATURAL STRIKER
In a match against Pirates, Stellenbosch coach made an interesting tactical call after starting the match with midfielders Chumani Butsaka and Thapelo Mokobodi playing as false 9s, leaving Wonderboy Makhubu and Ashley Cupido on the bench. Meanwhile, the Western Cape outfit also missed Tshegofatso Mabasa, who couldn’t feature due to a loan agreement with Pirates.
Speaking after a disappointing performance against the Sea Robbers, Gavin Hunt revealed he opted to play without a natural striker as the same tactic worked in their 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns a few weeks ago.
“We had to change because we had injuries, we have to play like that, I thought it was working well. I think we are short in one area, which affects that area [striking department],” Hunt said.
“So we played against Sundowns without a striker, we played against [Kaizer] Chiefs without a striker, so it’s the fight I have here. When we play against teams like these, you are certainly on the back foot, but I’m disappointed because we lost the fight.”
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