Champions League in Stellenbosch sights

A goalless draw for Stellenbosch at home to Sekhukhune United cut into their lead in second place in the DStv Premiership but they are still on course for their runners-up berth behind Mamelodi Sundowns and a first opportunity to play in the Caf Champions League next season.

Windy conditions played havoc with the team’s plans at the Danie Craven Stadium on Saturday night but Stellenbosch did have the better chances to win the game, notably in the second half when Badari Ali Sangare in the visitors’ goal made two fine point-blank stops.

With the draw, Stellenbosch extended their unbeaten run to 20 matches in all competitions but are now only two points clear in second place after starting the weekend four points ahead of their nearest rival.

They moved up to 39 points, two ahead of Orlando Pirates, who knocked Sekhukhune out of third place with their 7-1 home win over Lamontville Golden Arrows in Soweto on Saturday.

“I keep saying we're going to keep trying, just one game at a time but it is more and more becoming an opportunity,” said Barker of the chance to play in continental club competition for the first time.

'AMAZING'

“We've had a really good, positive season already and I think it's just up to us now, to be positive in the run-in to the end of the league and just give it a shot.

“To do that (qualify for the Champions League) will be amazing,” Barker said.

Stellenbosch sit 10 points behind leaders Sundowns, who have three games in hand.

Barker’s side have got eight games left, one more than Pirates, and their next league game is a return match against Sekhukhune in Polokwane on 17 April.