The newly promoted Betway Premiership side's fairytale run in their first appearance in the competition ended with a 2-0 defeat to AmaZulu on Sunday as Usuthu retained the provincial crown.
"It is unfortunate we lost the final, but we are proud to have reached it," the club's team manager was quoted by IOL.
"We played three games to get to the final, which was one more than AmaZulu, so it was a good experience for us. This was our first real opportunity to rub shoulders with the big teams, and we stayed true to our style of play. Although we lost to AmaZulu, we have a lot to take away from this."
The Stallions earned their place in the final after defeating Golden Arrows, continuing the momentum that secured their promotion to the Betway Premiership.
Against an experienced AmaZulu side that finished fourth in the league last season, Milford competed with determination, matching Usuthu physically and creating opportunities on the counter-attack.
However, AmaZulu's quality in key moments proved decisive as they scored twice to claim a 2-0 victory and successfully defend the KZN Premier's Cup title.
Despite falling at the final hurdle, Milford leave the tournament encouraged by their performances. Their run to the decider and competitive display against one of KwaZulu-Natal's strongest sides provided another indication that they are capable of holding their own in the top flight.
The defeat was disappointing, but the lessons gained from competing against established Premiership opposition could prove invaluable as Milford prepare for their maiden Betway Premiership campaign with an opening fixture against Orlando Pirates at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.
Betway Premiership newcomers Kruger United are gearing up for their first taste of top-flight football when they face Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.
Defending Betway Premiership champions Orlando Pirates have strengthened their attacking options with the signing of Norwegian-born striker Sebastian Pedersen.
With just a few days to go before the start of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, expectations will be high for clubs with new coaches looking to make their mark, while those already in charge will be eager to prove they can deliver success.
Knowledge Musona has paid an emotional tribute to Kaizer Chiefs, crediting the Soweto giants for launching the career that took him from South Africa to some of Europe's top leagues.
