Stellenbosch get draw in tough circumstances

Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker said his side had to overcome difficult conditions in holding hosts FC 15 de Agosto of Equatorial Guinea to a goalless draw in their African Confederation Cup second round, first leg tie on Saturday.

The pitch at Ebebiyin Stadium, deep in the interior of the country and near the border with Cameroon, plus the humid conditions, made it a tough assignment for the South African club, who reached the Confederation Cup semifinals last year.

“It was not an easy encounter, with a lot of difficulties within the game, the weather, the conditions, the pitch, but I think we apply ourselves well for the majority of the game,” said Barker as the squad readied to head home on Sunday.

“We were the better team. It's unfortunate we weren't able to convert one or two of the chances that we created. But we did well to come out of these conditions, having not conceded. So, yeah, we prepared and ready to go back home, and then hopefully get the job done, so we can get to the group stage side. Of course, unfortunately, no away goal but a big clean sheet to take back home.”

Stellenbosch host the return leg on Saturday at the Athlone Stadium with a place in the 16-team group phase at stake.

“We just need to still continue working on our opportunities that we're creating and converting more of those opportunities,” added Barker, who added he felt Stellenbosch were in a strong position in the tie.

“I think the obvious mindset is now prepping and focusing on Wednesday’s big league, and once we finish with that, then we'll start preparing once again for the second leg.”

Stellenbosch, who sit second from bottom in the Betway Premiership standings, host Lamontville Golden Arrows on Wednesday.