Why Steve Barker believes Stellies can compete for MTN8 title

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker believes his side has got all it takes to go all the way and compete the MTN8 this season.

It only takes three matches to get to the final; that’s the quarterfinal and two legged semi-finals.

In last season’s competition, the Capetonians lost in the quarterfinals on penalties against Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs.

This time around, the Cape Windlands side open their campaign with an away trip to Peter Mokaba Stadium against SuperSport United on Sunday 13 August.

STEVE BARKER ON THEIR MTN8 CHANCES

According to Barker, if they make it to the semi-finals, they have better chances of clinching their first ever trophy in the SA topflight.

“But I do know that if we can get to the semi-final, we’ll have the belief that we can make it to the final and then go all the way,” said Barker.

“We’d love to be the first team to put our name on it [new MTN8 trophy]. We will be giving everything we have.

“It is a competition where you come in one game away from a semi-final. There is a lot of anticipation and excitement for the match this weekend and we are looking forward to it.”

STEVE BARKER WARY OF GAVIN HUNT AND SUPERSPORT UNITED THREAT

Barker is aware of the threat ahead of them as they will take on SuperSport United in the quarter finals.

“We are up against a formidable opponent in the form of Gavin Hunt and SuperSport United. They have a good cup pedigree, having been to and won in many finals. Whereas we are still the youngsters seen maybe as a team that might be underestimated.

“We’ve prepared well and we’re looking forward to the encounter. It offers something different to the league as a once-off game, where you’re either in or out of the tournament after Sunday. We’re determined to be in the hat come semi-final time,” he added.

Kickoff is at 6pm.

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