Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has addressed a quarrel between teammates Sage Stephens and Ismael Toure that erupted during their MTN8 clash against TS Galaxy.
The heated argument occurred during the match at the Danie Craven Stadium on Sunday afternoon, where Stellenbosch secured their place in the semifinals.
After a foul by a TS Galaxy player on Stephens, the goalkeeper became involved in a heated exchange with the Ivorian defender, which escalated to a headbutt from Stephens.
Barker insists the incident appeared more serious than what it actually was and stated the chat in the dressing room was sufficient to help the situation.
However, he acknowledged that Toure’s limited English can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.
STEVE BARKER ON TEAMMATE QUARREL THAT LED TO SAGE STEPHEN’S HEADBUTT ON ISMAEL TOURE
“Toure is a volatile guy. Being French-speaking, sometimes he’s not able to express himself in English,” said Barker.
“I think it looked greater than what it was and I only got told about it once I got into the dressing room.
“I didn’t really deal with it and wanted to say something, but the halftime team talk was sufficient to calm it down and remind them that we’re on the field and we have to fight for each other.
“Sometimes emotions are not the worst thing; it shows people players care. But I’ll get the details, and if there’s a need to address it further, I will. But for now, it’s all good.”
Stellenbosch joined the Orlando Pirates in the semifinals who beat SuperSport United 3-1 on Saturday. Meanwhile, the other two spots will be determined next week when Sekhukhune United meet Cape Town City FC while Mamelodi Sundowns take on Polokwane City FC.
The Winelands side reached the fourth semi-final in a row in cup competitions, having done the same in the previous season’s MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup [which they won] and Nedbank Cup.