Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has has praised his players’ performance after their convincing victory over Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs in the club’s first-ever CAF Confederation Cup match.
Stellies got their continental campaign underway in perfect fashion on Saturday after recording a 3-0 win over Spurs, with Andre de Jong, Devin Titus, and Fawaaz Basadien scoring the goals for the Cape Winelands side.
“I thought we started the game well and that we had good control, especially in the first 45 minutes,” Barker said. “We moved the ball around well, we were patient in our build-up, and we played with a lot of confidence.
“As expected, our opposition are a very well-coach and well-drilled team in terms of their defensive structure, which made it difficult for us to create chances.
“The key was to remain patient and keep probing, and then hopefully something would happen. As it was, from good open-play football, we ended up scoring from more of a messy situation.
“But, sometimes you get rewarded that way from the pressure you apply on the opposition, and something comes from it, and I thought we were worth our lead heading into the second half.
“It was important to come out after the break and keep up that pressure and intensity and ensure that we don’t make any errors that could lead to a goal. The aim was then to get a third goal and see if we could solidify our position, which we fortunately did.
“The last 20-25 was a bit scrappy as both teams made substitutes and the game lost a bit of rhythm. They looked dangerous on transition with us giving possession away, but overall I can only be happy and proud.
“It was our first-ever inter-continental club game, so to come away from home and win the game 3-0, credit must go to the players for a really good performance.”
The two teams will return to Durban next weekend when Stellenbosch host the reverse fixture at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
“…One thing that we need to understand, is that the tie is not over,” Barker added. “The game is not finished, it’s only half-time. We have to come out next week and show the same character and attitude towards the game.
“I can anticipate that our opponents will really come out for it because they have nothing to lose. They need to try to get themselves back into the tie, so we expect another tough game, as was the case today.
“We’re looking forward to it though and we’ve got a week of preparation ahead. We’ll get back to Cape Town, get a bit of refreshment and regeneration, and then prepare for next week…”
