Titus urges Stellies to embrace unpredictability to overcome Pirates

STELLENBOSCH have grown into one of the most consistent cup teams in the country, and today’s MTN8 final at Mbombela Stadium against Orlando Pirates will mark their third cup final in as many seasons.

- SMISO MSOMI

For midfielder Devin Titus, this run of success is no fluke but the product of hard work, resilience, and belief instilled by coach Steve Barker and his technical team.

“A third final in three years means it's a huge credit to the players because we work hard so we can get into finals and hopefully we can win this final,” Titus said, reflecting on a period that has transformed Stellies from Betway Premiership outsiders into a side feared in knockout competitions.

The Western Cape-based club tasted glory last season when they lifted the Carling Knockout Cup, their first major silverware.

That triumph was a reward for a group of players who have steadily grown together, combining young talent with experienced leaders.

But Stellies also endured the pain of falling short in the 2024 MTNS final against the same opponents they face this weekend.