Barker Sees Positive Despite Sundowsns Loss

Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker is confident his side is on the right track despite failing to stop Mamelodi Sundowns in a Nedbank Cup semifinal defeat at Danie Craven Stadium on Sunday.
Despite not reaching the Nedbank Cup finals, Barker is certain there is a lot more that Stellenbosch gained from their clash against Masandawana on Sunday.
“When you play a team that plays continental football, you learn certain lessons,” said Barker.
Stellenbosch had not tasted a defeat since a 3-1 loss to Sundowns in September, going on an incredible 25-game unbeaten streak before it was snapped in the hands of Masandawana.
Barker reiterates on the possibilities of revenge when the two sides meet in a DStv Premiership fixture in two weeks’ time.
“They just sort of know how to manage situations and how to manage games and obviously with the individual quality they have it will be difficult to see them not remaining unbeaten,” asserted Barker.
“Obviously they have the ability to, as you could see midweek, to rest some players and still be able to produce results.”
The Black Label Cup winning coach expressed pride in his team for giving the reigning DStv Premiership champions a run for their money on the day.
“I can confidently say I think we’re on the right track if we can take Sundowns as hard as we did and push them all the way,” said Barker.
Stellenbosch remain unbeaten in the league since the beginning of 2024 and will look to continue their impressive form when they host AmaZulu on Wednesday.