Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has heaped praise on emerging youngsters, Omega Mdaka and Langelihle Phili as they continue to impress.
Stellies won their first league game beating Marumo Gallants 1-0 at Danie Craven Stadium, scoring at the beginning of the second half with Phili’s first touch from the bench and Barker’s side kept their first league clean sheet following a massive effort by their defence which saw Mdaka winning his third Man of the Match award this season.
Barker has since praised Mdaka for his late performances.
“Let’s start with Omega. Obviously, I’ve said it before. He didn’t get that many opportunities when Fawaaz was here, and obviously, Fawaaz’s leaving opened the door for him. He’s been absolutely brilliant since. He’s played now, I think, at every minute of every game. He plays with just his heart on his sleeve with a lot of energy, a lot of intensity, gets up and down, he’s got a great left foot, defends well, and helps us in attack. So very, very happy for Omega. He’s taking his opportunities with both hands, and long may he continue,” Barker said.
The longest-serving coach in the PSL also explained his excitement over Phili’s recent performances which saw him score his third goal of the season and win them the big three points.
Barker highlighted that Phili will still get more game time as they have a busy schedule.
“Langelihle, also very happy for him,” he added.
“Like you say, he’s getting goals now, so the confidence is growing, the belief is growing. And so, yeah, we have a big squad where a lot of matches, so, it’s just managing the players and giving them the right opportunities at the right time.
“And hopefully, ‘Major’ will get more starts going forward, but he’s also put his hand up, he’s taking his opportunity, so I can only be happy and pleased for him and what he’s doing for the team.”
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