Barker explains how Iqraam Rayners inspired Stellies’ resurgence

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has explained how Iqraam Rayners inspired the team’s resurgence.

Rayners is undoubtedly in his best form right now since re-uniting with the Cape Winelands club from SuperSport United in January during the PSL transfer window.

He has 15 goals and three assists in all competitions. Nine were scored in the league and six in the Nedbank Cup.

Since his return to the club, Stellenbosch FC have been a completely different side. At the beginning of the season, they were struggling with consistency, but now they seem to be on the right track.

In their last 12 outings, the club has won nine games, drew one and suffered two defeats. The good run saw them rise to sixth on the log standings with 36 points from 27 matches.

To add, the Stellies are in Nedbank Cup semi-finals, where they will face Sekhukhune on 7 May.

BARKER SAYS RAYNERS BROUGHT BACK CONFIDENCE

According to Barker, besides scoring goals for fun, Rayners brought back lost confidence and togetherness in the team.

“It started with Iqraam Rayners doing well from the get go. He lifted the confidence and belief in the team,” said Barker.

“It has given us an opportunity to play in different ways, we good in transitions with his pace. He has improved the link up play, but we are a good possession based team as well.

“It has allowed us to change the formation based on our opposition. The biggest thing I think it’s the confidence, unity and togetherness that has grown in our team.”

50-GOAL MILESTONE

On Saturday, Rayners made history becoming the first player to score 50 goals for Stellenbosch FC.

He scored a brace in a league encounter as they defeated Golden Arrows in a seven-goal thriller winning the match 5-2.

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