Steve Barker Urges Fairness Ahead of MTN8 Final Against Orlando Pirates

• Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has led the Stellies to another MTN8 final just like he did last year
• The South African tactician insists the upcoming MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates isn’t about redemption
• Netizens have shared their thoughts on Barker, after calling for fairness and no controversial moment ahead of the clash

Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has called for fairness ahead of the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and the Stellies in September.

The South African tactician led the Maroons to the final for the second season running after they defeated Sekhukhune United 3-1 on aggregate. The first leg ended 2-0, while the second leg finished in a 1-1 draw.

The Stellies were defeated by the Bucs in last season’s final, with Barker pointing out some of the mistakes the referee in charge of the match made in that tie.

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Barker preaches fairness ahead of MTN8 final

Speaking from the depths of Peter Mokaba Stadium after Stellenbosch’s 1-1 draw with Sekhukhune United, Steve Barker made one wish clear.

“All I hope is for a fair contest, without the game being decided by a controversial moment,” he said.

Looking ahead to the MTN8 final, the Stellies coach was quick to dismiss any talk of revenge, despite the team’s painful past defeat to Orlando Pirates in the league this season.

“This isn’t about payback or redemption. It’s a new match, with a different context. Pirates have a new coach and remain a quality side, as they showed when they dominated us earlier this week.”

While revenge isn’t the narrative, Barker insists his squad is highly motivated to face the Bucs in a repeat of last season’s final.

“Every coach and player dreams of competing in finals and lifting silverware—it’s part of building a legacy. These are the moments you want to share with your kids and grandkids someday. That’s what drives the daily hard work and ambition. We’re one step away from making that dream real.”

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The Stellies boss sparked reactions among netizens after calling for a final without controversy against the Soweto giants.

Reactions as Barker hopes for a fair MTN8 final

BBK29_ shared:

"I don't like coaches who only talk when decisions don't go their way but keep quiet when is them benefiting in matches 🤞💯🤧🤧 His team did score against Orlando Pirates in that final last year due to ref errors and he celebrated and never mentioned that🙄🙄🙄 In fact I hope Orlando Pirates gets luck and beat them again💯💯🤞"

baloyi_richard reacted:

"Can Steve Barker speak about the controversy late yesterday afternoon where Sekhukhune was denied a penalty first half and or it doesn't exist because his team benefitted?"

MissPalulu wrote:

"Like having a throw in where it shouldn’t be like what happened with you guys the last time we met."

FcChauke commented:

"Selective victimhood turns a blind eye on some undue gains and trumpets the sufferings in a selective way, in order to gain sympathy."

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tazee said:

"There will be controversy. We already saw someone with three eggs in the field. There will be issues with the referee who will give controversial penalties. Mark my words."

Daniel thapelo added:

"Rest assured Ta Stevie Barker this cup is yours as coach you deserve it for the wonderful job you've been doing... 2nd in time in the final for the same cup ah it's yours good coach 🙌🙏. We Believe

Mdaka reflects on positive start this season

Briefly News also reported that Omega Mdaka has shared his views on his impressive performance at the start of this season for Stellenbosch FC

The Kaizer Chiefs academy product slot into the void Basadien left behind at the Stellies after moving to Sundowns and he didn't disappoint.

Source: Briefly News