Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has voiced concern over what he describes as increasingly physical encounters in the Betway Premiership, following his side’s hard-fought 1-0 victory against Marumo Gallants earlier this week.
While the win brought a much-needed boost after a challenging start to the season, Barker suggested that his team may be facing overly aggressive tactics from opponents.
Langelihle Phili netted in the 46th minute at the Danie Craven Stadium to steer Stellies into 11th place, with four points from four games.
Gallants were the more physical side throughout the tie, with Stellenbosch star winger Devon Titus the recipient of a number of tough challenges.
“It is not only now, it’s happened in the past too. Good and influential players get targeted – a tactic that you can negate the opposition by not giving that player the time and space and maybe rough housing him,” explained Barker.
“The challenges we got today happen quite often on the continent. We’ve got used to it. Hopefully it’s not a trend that will continue and it’s a once-off match against Gallants.
“I said to the fourth official and the linesman that they were seemingly targeting Devon. Unfortunately, maybe the ref could have been stronger earlier on. If you are not carded for those types of tackles, it will obviously continue.”
“It seemed like it was different players on different occasions. It did seem like he was targeted. That’s the way they wanted to play. Fortunately, Devin came through it without any injuries.”
Stellies are next in action against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday.