Barker Praises Team’s “Professional Performance” In MTN8 Semifinal Win
Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker has praised his players for their commanding performance in the MTN8 semifinal first-leg victory against Sekhukhune United on Saturday.
The 2-0 win at Danie Craven Stadium gives Stellenbosch a significant advantage heading into the second leg.
The club, known as Stellies, is looking to reach the final after losing to Orlando Pirates in the championship last season. If they advance, they will face either Pirates or Mamelodi Sundowns, who are currently tied 1-1 and have yet to play their second leg.
Barker expressed his pride in the team’s professional display. “I thought this was a really good, solid, and professional performance,” he said. “The conditions weren’t the easiest, but I thought we handled it well and had moments where we could play, move the ball around, and ask questions of their defense.”
He highlighted how the team stuck to their strategy and created two well-executed goals. “Lesiba Nku’s delivery for the corner that led to [Enyinnaya] Kazie’s goal and his pass for the second goal were both of high quality,” Barker noted. “We got the two-nil lead, and then it was a question of whether or not we could get a third to hopefully put us in a strong position, while also making sure we didn’t concede an away goal.”
Barker mentioned that the team was “maybe unlucky” when Nku hit the crossbar in the second half, which would have made the score 3-0. However, he was pleased with the overall control. “We handled them well and didn’t allow them too many opportunities. We had good control.”
He concluded by commending the entire squad. “I’m really proud of a top performance from every single player that played and that came on and added value to the team,” he added.
The second leg will take place at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. Barker is hoping to lead the team to its third final in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and its second in the MTN8 competition.
In the meantime, Stellenbosch will shift their focus to the Betway Premiership, where they will face Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.
