Stellenbosch seek redemption as MTN8 final rematch with Pirates rekindles controversy
Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker says last season’s controversial MTN8 final defeat to Orlando Pirates will serve as a major source of motivation when the two sides meet again in this year’s final.
The two teams are set for another high-stakes showdown in the domestic tournament’s finale on Saturday(tomorrow), a repeat of last season’s clash that ended in heartbreak for the Maroons. Pirates lifted the trophy after a hotly debated second goal, which was scored from an incorrectly taken free kick when the score was tied at 1-1.
Barker believes that moment changed the course of the game and remains a sore point for his players.
“Obviously, the disappointment of last season, in terms of a massive controversial decision near the end of the match, which changed the course of the game,” Barker told the media. “Again, I’m just hoping that in this final, the best team wins and it is not decided on a controversial moment.”
He added: “We still feel that sort of disappointment, and hopefully, that will drive us to be even better than in last year’s final — and a lot better than what we were in the league this season. If we fail to be better than we were recently against them, then it’s going to be tough for us.”
Despite his team’s hunger for revenge, Barker acknowledged the strength of the reigning champions, pointing out that Pirates have several players in the national team, a testament to their squad’s quality.
“Look, obviously, it shows testimony to what a good team they have built. To have seven players in the national team, and maybe one or two who are injured who could have been in the national team — basically, they’ve got national team players, which shows the quality,” he said.
However, he believes Stellenbosch may benefit from a more cohesive preparation period leading into the final.
“What’s in our favour is that we only have Thabo [Moloisane] currently there with Bafana Bafana, which has allowed us to prepare with our full squad except one. Whereas Pirates are likely to get their players really fresh and ready only from Wednesday or Thursday onwards,” he explained. “But that doesn’t make it easier, because it just shows the quality they have — national-level players across the pitch.”
As Stellenbosch aim to right the wrongs of last season and lift their first MTN8 title, Pirates will be chasing history of their own, looking to become the first club to win the cup four times in a row.
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