Stellies brace for more challenges ahead of CAF commitments

STELLENBOSCH FC and Steve Barker have been walking a thin line between safety and danger this season - an unexpected position for a team tipped to build on last year’s progress heading into this campaign.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

Yet despite the setbacks, there is still room to repair some of the early damage and close out the year on a stronger, more stable note.

Their response will depend heavily on the results they collect in the coming weeks, beginning with the CAF Confederation Cup group-stage opener against Republic of Congo side Otoho d’Oyo this Sunday.

Just when it seemed their season could not take another difficult turn, Stellies learned that they must play their continental home fixtures far away from their familiar base.

All suitable stadiums in Cape Town, as well as the Danie Craven Stadium, have either failed CAF requirements or are unavailable - forcing the club to relocate to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.