Stephens’ assessment of Stellenbosch squad depth in competing for the league and other titles
Stellenbosch FC captain Sage Stephens has assessed his side’s squad depth in competing for the Betway Premiership and other titles this season.
Apart from the league, the Western Cape side participated in the MTN8 and lost in the final; 3-1 against Orlando Pirates last week.
They made their CAF Confederation Cup debut and advanced to the group stage, overcoming Nsingizini Hotspurs of Eswatini and AS Vita of DR Congo in the preliminary rounds
Meanwhile, after three league matches, Stellies secured a 3-0 victory over Cape Town City FC, played to a 1-1 draw with Polokwane City FC, and suffered a 2-0 defeat to Golden Arrows
In addition to the aforementioned competitions, Stellenbosch will be participating in the Carling Knockout Cup and Nedbank Cup this season.
Stellenbosch FC players celebrate a goal in the MTN8 final. Picture by Zamani Makautsi/ Zakes Photography
SAGE STEPHENS ON STELLENBOSCH FC SQUAD DEPTH
Based on their performances this season, Stephens believes that coach Steve Barker and the technical team have assembled a competitive squad. While he acknowledges their potential, he believes that only time will reveal if they are good enough to compete for more competitions.
The 33-year-old singled out new signings Sanele Barns and Lehlohonono Mojela who are key players for their immediate impact. Barns has made 10 appearances in all competitions and scored one goal while Mojela has scored six goals in nine matches he has played.
“I think coach Steve [Barker] and the technical team did their homework in the squad depth,” said Stephens. “The signings we made have made an impact immediately with Sanele [Barns] and [Lehlohonolo] Mojela. So I think we’ve done well in that regard.
“It remains to be seen if we have the right squad depth to carry us throughout the 30-league calendar season, CAF Confederation Cup and the knockout competitions [Carling Knockout Cup and Nedbank Cup].
“I got full confidence in the coach, backroom staff and our fitness coaches, they will do the job for us for the full season.”
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