Hunt aims for CAF success

Wits coach claims he has immense interest in sojourn

The message at Bidvest Wits is clear: the Absa Premiership title is the top priority.

While coach Gavin Hunt insists he is serious about playing on the continent, Wits are not likely to see a CAF Confederation Cup exit as disastrous.

Wits drew 0-0 with Egyptian side Smouha in the first leg at Bidvest Stadium last weekend, and they’ll now travel to Alexandria for the return clash at Borg El Arab Stadium on Saturday (6pm).

This is where Mamelodi Sundowns won their Champions League title against Zamalek last year.

Wits would need the fighting spirit Downs showed on that historic night for the Clever Boys to reach the group stages.

Hunt again shot down suggestions that he shows a lack of interest in continental club competition.

“Lack of interest? Unbelievable. If you watched the game, we should have won comfortably. What else can you do? We cannot play the same players week in and week out,” he said, defending his decision to leave out key players in the first leg.

There is an injury concern after Thabang Monare limped off with a hamstring problem against Golden Arrows on Wednesday.

Hunt was impressed with how his players took their opportunities in the 3-0 win over Golden Arrows – in the absence of the likes of Daine Klate, Nazier Allie, Granwald Scott and James Keane.

Gabadinho Mhango scored from the penalty spot before Mogakolodi Ngele bagged a brace.