HAPPY CHAP: Steve Barker Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker highlighted the importance of Sunday’s win against Sekhukhune United in the race to secure continental qualification.
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In a high-stakes encounter showcasing grit and determination, Stellenbosch FC achieved two significant milestones, as they aim to cement a Betway Premiership Top 3 finish behind title-chasing Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.
When Stellies defeated a stubborn Sekhukhune United outfit 2-1 in a Betway Premiership match on Sunday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, it marked their first victory in 10 head-to-head encounters. Previously, Stellenbosch had managed two draws and suffered eight defeats against their Polokwane opponents.
It was also the first time in their Premiership tenure that Stellenbosch had secured four consecutive away victories. The win extended their unbeaten run in the league to eight matches.
After 21 games, Stellenbosch have 35 points, and their goal this season is to finish in the Top 3 to qualify for next season’s CAF competitions. The victory on Sunday significantly boosts their bid to secure a spot in the Confederation Cup.
“This is a massively important result for us. Both teams share the ambition of finishing in the top three,” said coach Steve Barker.
“It’s great to go into the Fifa break sitting in third place, and we can now look forward to the remainder of the season. We also have a big CAF quarter-final in April against Zamalek to prepare for. The Fifa break has come at a good time for us. We have played a lot of games recently, both physically and emotionally demanding.”
For once, a PSL coach was full of praise for the pitch conditions. Barker’s comments on the Peter Mokaba Stadium surface will be music to the ears of Hugo Broos, who will lead Bafana Bafana against Lesotho there on Friday evening.
“I wish I could take the pitch back home with me. Credit to the stadium management because it is in great condition,” said Barker.
“It was nice to play on a surface like that. Both teams were able to showcase their abilities with the ball, and I thought it was an interesting tactical battle. There were times when Sekhukhune looked to have the upper hand. At one point, it seemed they might be the ones to take the win.”
The league will pause during the international break, with Stellenbosch returning to action at home on Wednesday, April 2, in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final against holders Zamalek, the Egyptian giants.