Linda Moreotsene

Linda Moreotsene

For SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt, clinching the Absa Premiership title last season was just one step in turning his players into consistent achievers.

Hunt's side continue their pre-season schedule by taking part in the Kimberley Invitational Cup on Sunday.

The tournament kicks off at 9am with United taking on Free State Stars and Bloemfontein Celtic matched against Ajax Cape Town at 11am.

For Hunt and his technical team this offers yet another opportunity to integrate new players in the championship-winning side.

"We are not looking too far ahead, but of course we do have our goals this season. The bar has been raised and there is no going back for us.

"The players know that - even the new ones," Hunt said.

This might indicate the manager's determination to retain the championship and to launch a serious challenge on the African continent, but Hunt won't be drawn on his ambitions in the new season.

"I will continue to take each game as it comes. Right now we want to win this tournament in Kimberley at the weekend. It offers us the chance to continue trying new combinations, and this has given me an idea of what we are likely to see when we start with full-on competitive matches," he said.

Hunt said the new players are responding well and are all eager to prove what they are capable of He was perhaps referring to new signings like Anthony Laffor, Brent Carelse and Glen Salmon, from whom a lot is expected.

Tournament organiser Lungile Jan said they were looking forward to a great showing from the teams, especially after asking them to field 60 percent of their teams from last year.