Durban City FC, the KZN-based club newly ascended to the Betway Premiership, has wasted no time in making a significant statement of intent with the acquisition of former Mamelodi Sundowns star Haashim Domingo and experienced goalkeeper Darren Keet.
Their arrival in Durban signals a pivotal moment for the ambitious club, which is clearly focused on building a competitive squad for the challenging top-flight season ahead.
Both players recently concluded their tenures with Cape Town City, a club that has unfortunately been relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, prompting a clear-out of key personnel.
The departures from the Western Cape side extend beyond Domingo and Keet, with a list of other notable names seeking new opportunities: Thamsanqa Mkhize, Thabo Nodada, Darwin Gonzalez, Fortune Makaringe, Lorenzo , Kamohelo Mokotjo, and Elson Sithole.
Domingo, a 29-year-old attacking midfielder, spent just one season with Cape Town City after joining on a free transfer from Raja Casablanca. Despite the team's struggles, Domingo proved his worth, contributing a goal and three assists across 32 appearances, including crucial moments in the PSL Promotion/Relegation Playoffs. His flair and creativity will be essential in Durban City's offensive strategy.
Veteran goalkeeper Keet brings a wealth of experience, having completed a four-year stint with Cape Town City since his free transfer in the 2021/22 campaign. Keet's reliability between the posts was evident in his 104 matches for the John Comitis-owned club, where he conceded 96 goals and, impressively, kept 40 clean sheets. His leadership and shot-stopping abilities will be invaluable for a newly promoted side.
DOMINGO & KEET TO REUNITE WITH HUNT
Crucially, the transfers of both Domingo and Keet are underscored by a significant reunion: they will once again play under the guidance of Gavin Hunt.
Hunt, a highly decorated coach, recently assumed the head coach position at Durban City FC, succeeding Simo Dladla, who steered the team to promotion. Hunt previously mentored both players during his highly successful period at Bidvest Wits.
Domingo flourished under Hunt's system during the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, recording six goals and four assists in 57 appearances for “The Clever Boys.” Keet's second spell with Wits, spanning the 2016/17 to 2018/19 seasons, was particularly memorable.
He was a key component of the squad that achieved a historic league and cup double, winning the ABSA Premiership and the Telkom Knockout Cup. His statistics from that period – 139 appearances, 148 goals conceded, and 46 clean sheets – highlight his consistent performance at the highest level.
The re-establishment of these strong player-coach relationships is a clear indication that Durban City is prioritizing experience and proven synergy as they prepare to make their mark in the Betway Premiership.
