Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker remains optimistic despite suffering back-to-back defeats, highlighting the team’s remarkable season.

The Stellies’ unbeaten run in the league finally ended after a loss to Moroka Swallows on Saturday, following their Nedbank Cup semi-final defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns last week.

“I cannot take away from what the team has done and what we have achieved as a squad,” Barker declared in the aftermath of Swallows defeat. 

“To go unbeaten up until today in the league is testimony to what they’ve done.” 

Despite the losses, Stellenbosch remain firmly in second place on the DStv Premiership table with 50 points after 28 games, one point ahead of Orlando Pirates. This secured their qualification for the CAF club competition next season.

“As we speak, we are still second in the DStv Premiership with two matches to go,” Barker noted proudly. “I’m proud of the team thus far, and we will finish strong, rest up, and then look forward to the next season.” 

However, concerns linger regarding fatigue and squad depth with Stellenbosch on track to play a staggering 48 games by season’s end.

“It’s been difficult with the amount and accumulation of all the matches,” Barker admitted.  

“So maybe this is something that we will have to be aware of when we play that number of matches, in terms of the depth.” 

Barker maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the team’s remarkable achievements throughout the season.

“If you told me at the beginning of the season that we would be in every semi-final the league had to offer, and we would finish third in the league, I wouldn’t believe you,” Barker said.  

“So, regardless of whether we finish second or third in the league, it’d be a fantastic season for us.”