Coach Kutumela optimistic despite TUT's HWBSL regression

TUT were the league’s runners-up in 2021 and finished third in 2022. A year later, they have won just five of their opening 16 matches in the campaign.

For a team used to going toe-to-toe with the likes of champions Mamelodi Sundowns and the University of Western Cape, Kutumela acknowledges things could be better. 

"The first half for us was not really that good, but it was also not that bad because we are actually developing. When you look at the goals we have [scored], it shows that these girls can actually play and the potential is there, they are capable," said the coach.

"But sometimes, when we play the likes of Sundowns and all those teams, it's the nerves, and they actually lose the game before they can even play.

"But it's just for me as a coach to keep on motivating them, encouraging them, bringing the ball back [under control], so I think the second round will be much better than the first."

Kutumela, who’s only in her first season in charge, concedes they may not get anywhere close to their previous exploits.

"We really have learned a lot, and we're doing good so far. Actually, if we could be in the top eight, it would be amazing for us – even if we could be number eight, for us, it would be a great thing," she added.