Steve Barker eyes redemption as Stellies target Kaizer Chiefs in Carling Knockout clash

Barker admits Amakhosi have shown signs of progress this season but believes cup competitions provide a fresh platform for his side to reset after a stuttering league campaign. Stellies are currently languishing in 14th place with just one win from nine matches.

"Cup competitions are always exciting, and the Carling Knockout is another opportunity for us to challenge for another trophy," Barker told the club's media team.

"It's also nice to be playing at home first and against a team like Kaizer Chiefs. The mood is good, and we have prepared well, with the boys showing a lot of energy and enthusiasm."

Stellies have extra motivation to make amends after their recent disappointment in the MTN8 final, where they lost to Orlando Pirates for the second successive season. Barker hopes his squad - many of whom lifted this trophy in 2023 - can channel that frustration into another cup run.

"When you reach a final and lose like we did in the MTN8, you want to rectify those wrongs," he said.

"We also recently lifted this trophy, and a lot of players were part of that team. That all drives us to do the best we can."

Chiefs head into the fixture with confidence, having already beaten Stellies in the league earlier this season. Barker concedes they will be formidable opponents but insists his team must focus on their own strengths.

"It's up to us to concentrate on what we can do. We've been working hard in training, and hopefully, being a cup game, we can take the opportunity to get into the quarter-finals."