Stellenbosch hunt stability as Polokwane City threaten their revival

Stellenbosch FC, buoyed by their recent resurgence and a noticeable shift in momentum, will have another chance to build on their revival in the Betway Premiership when they welcome Polokwane City to the Athlone Stadium on Wednesday evening (7:30pm kick-off).

For a team widely applauded for their progress in recent seasons, both Stellies and head coach Steve Barker have seen their resolve tested from the outset of the current campaign. They have spent much of it navigating deep and difficult waters, yet they appear to have just enough left in reserve to mount a genuine attempt to stay afloat and claw their way back into a competitive position.

Their 2-0 defeat to Kaizer Chiefs on the opening day may initially have been viewed as a forgivable early stumble, but in hindsight it perhaps revealed more about the state of the side than expected. From that point onwards, they struggled to put together any sort of rhythm, their season punctured by inconsistent results and performances that left them searching for stability.

Consistency is exactly what Barker and Co will now be desperate to restore. He understands the value of momentum in turning a season around — the way it can lift a team, grow belief, and spark a run strong enough to change the complexion of a campaign. 

With many matches still to come, the opportunity remains firmly within reach, provided they can sustain and build on their recent improvements.

Stellenbosch head into this encounter unbeaten in their last three outings, a run that includes a win and a draw in their Caf Confederations Cup group stage fixtures. Their most impressive result in that period was the hard-fought 2-1 victory away to Orbit College at Olympia Park in the Betway Premiership, a performance marked not just by the scoreline but by the character they showed.

Coming from behind and securing the winner deep into added time delivered more than three points; it injected belief. Moments like that can become season-defining, offering psychological lift after weeks of frustration and transforming what looked like impending disappointment into renewed hope.

They will carry that sense of belief into their meeting with Polokwane City, who have been among the most reliable teams in the league this season. Although Stellies will enjoy home advantage, they will be aware that Rise and Shine present a stern test.

Passing it, however, could bring significant reward and strengthen the foundation of their recovery.

Head-to-head, Stellies hold a slight edge with two wins and two draws from the last five clashes, while City have claimed one victory. Current form, though, favours the Limpopo outfit. Their position in seventh place reflects their solid run, and their recent 1-0 triumph over AmaZulu highlighted just how effective they can be away from home.

Despite the early damage in Stellenbosch’s campaign, this final fixture of the year carries major importance. With a lengthy break looming, a positive result could be crucial.

No team wants to enter the Africa Cup of Nations pause weighed down by negative memories, and — as seen with their gritty showing against AS Otoho and Orbit — one game can be enough to shift the entire mood.

For Barker and his charges, ending the year with renewed confidence will be vital in returning from the break well-placed to continue their climb.