Positive signs for Hunt’s men

Bidvest Wits continue to make hard work of this Premier Soccer League season, but at least the last couple of games have given them cause for encouragement.

An Absa Premiership victory at league leaders Baroka FC, only the Clever Boys’ second win of a dreadful start to the defence of their title, was followed on Saturday by a Telkom Knockout last-16 success against bogey side Free State Stars.

Ea Lla Koto had knocked Wits out of this competition at the same stage in 2015 and 2016, but this time goals in extra time from Amr Gamal and James Keene (above) were enough to see Gavin Hunt’s side to a 4-2 home win.

Wits might have won in normal time but twice threw away a lead, as a rare goal from Bongani Khumalo and Gamal’s first of the night were cancelled out by Thabo Maphakisa and a penalty from Siphelele Mthembu.

Gamal’s goals doubled his tally for the season, and he expressed his delight after the match.

“Great win and great performance today well done clever boys,” tweeted Gamal, who was named Man-of-the-Match.

Wits return to league action on Wednesday evening when they host Chippa United and will be able to welcome back captain Thulani Hlatshwayo after he missed the TKO match through suspension.

Hunt’s side badly need to go on some sort of run in the Premiership if they are to revive their faltering title challenge, though the table is extremely tight at the moment. Wits are currently thirdfrom-bottom but are only eight points behind leaders Baroka.

Chippa are currently eighth in the table, but only three points clear of Wits.