Stellenbosch FC have booked themselves a spot in the final of the inaugural Carling Black Label Knockout competition after cruising past Richards Bay on Saturday.
Stellies thumped the Natal Rich Boys 3-0 in the semi-final clash played at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, Durban. Thanks to second half goals from Devin Titus, Alain Oura and super substitute Antonio van Wyk.
The side from the Winelands will now make their first final and will now wait for either TS Galaxy or AmaZulu – who will cross swords in the second semi-final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.
Stellenbosch Iqraam Rayners was voted the man-of-the-match and landed himself his third R100 000 hefty cheque so far in the tournament.
After the match, coach Steve Barker expressed his delight to have guided Stellies to their first ever final, saying the objective is now to win the final.
“It’s not easy to describe how I am feeling, the emotions are really ecstatic right now,” Barker said during his post-match interview with SuperSport.
“These players deserve getting into the final. I can never fault their hard work, commitment, and attitude.
“This is a momentous occasion for the club – the first final but it it’s not bout making the final but winning the final, that is our next objective.”
Richards Bay did not come to the party, as they shot themselves in the foot by conceding three soft goals.
Second semi-final also in Durban
The first half from both sides was uninspiring, as neither side was able to create enough clearcut goal scoring opportunities.
Coach Kaitano Tembo will now shift his attention to the DStv Premiership, as they are currently languishing in the relegation zone on number 15 with 10 points after 13 matches.
The second semi-final, between AmaZulu and TS Galaxy, will play on Sunday also in Durban.
Kick-off at Moses Mabhida Stadium will be 3pm.
