Head coach Steve Barker is confident that his side can make a positive start to the DStv Premiership campaign when they take on Orlando Pirates in their 2023/24 season-opener on Saturday.

Stellenbosch FC’s 2023/24 DStv Premiership will get underway on Saturday evening when the Maroons play host to Soweto giants Orlando Pirates at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. Kick-off is at 20h00 and the match will be televised on SuperSport PSL channel 202.

Key fixture and parking information for Stellenbosch FC v Orlando Pirates

Ahead of the highly-anticipated encounter, Stellies head coach Steve Barker revealed that pre-season preparations had gone well ahead of Saturday’s opener and that he is confident his side will be up for the challenge of getting a positive result against the Buccaneers.

“We’re massively excited, not only me but all of the technical staff, support staff, and the players,” Steve Barker said. “We had a good break after last season and a good pre-season, and it’s now time to get back on the field and do what we have to do on the field.

“Preparations have gone well. From day one the players came back fresh and excited for the new campaign. We’ve had a good balance of tactical work, technical work, and conditioning, and I believe the squad is in a good space and ready for the first match against Orlando Pirates.

Meet the squad – Stellies squad and jersey numbers for the 2023/24 season

“It’s always nice if you can get off to a good, positive start, and it gives you confidence and reward for all the work you put in during the pre-season. We want to do just that, especially in a home game, and even though it’s against a formidable opponent there is no reason we can’t feel confident that we can start the season on a winning note.