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Stellenbosch FC’s head coach, Steve Barker, expressed his mixed emotions after seeing former player Iqraam Rayners score the winning goal for Mamelodi Sundowns against his team.
In the league encounter, Rayners expertly navigated around Stellies goalkeeper Sage Stephens before scoring with a precise shot into the top corner, celebrating joyously.
Nevertheless, the Bafana Bafana international, who is currently showcasing his talent as one of the league’s leading scorers, opted not to celebrate as a tribute to the club that played an essential role in his career.
Sundowns brought Rayners on board from Stellies during the off-season after triggering his release clause, and he has quickly become their standout performer this season.
In the last three games across all competitions, Rayners has been continuously finding the net for Sundowns.
“Watching one of your former players, whom you helped revitalize to secure a spot on the Bafana Bafana squad, score such a brilliant goal evokes a blend of emotions,” Barker reflected.
“That being said, despite the challenges, I’m proud of the team’s performance in the second half. I told them after the game that if they continue to play like that, they will win significantly more matches than they will lose.”
Stellenbosch will have a short break over the festive season before facing SuperSport United on December 28th. Barker emphasized the importance of this final match of the year, noting its potential impact on their league position.
“It wasn’t our time this match. However, we will give the players a few days off and return on Monday to prepare during the Christmas period for one last game of 2024 against SuperSport,” Barker explained.
“It’s vital for us to rebound and secure points from this match to keep our place in the standings.”
The year 2024 has been a successful one for Barker’s team, finishing third in the Betway Premiership table, narrowly missing out on second place and CAF Champions League qualification, while also reaching the MTN8 final, where they lost to Orlando Pirates. Furthermore, they are competing in the Confederation Cup group stages, marking their first participation in a CAF club competition.
Despite the recent loss to Sundowns, they currently occupy fourth place in the league with 15 points, tied with SuperSport and holding two games in hand after nine matches played.
The post Barker’s Heartache as Rayner Scores appeared first on Sportnow.
