Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker praised his side following their performance against Eswatini outfit Nsingizini Hotspurs in their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup match.

The Maroon got their campaign off on a positive note after claiming a comfortable 3-0 victory over the Eswatini outfit.

Goals from Andre de Jong, Devin Titus, and Fawaaz Basadien saw the Cape Winelands side walk away with a win at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Barker was pleased with his side’s showing and felt they dominated throughout the game to claim their first-ever win in the continental competition.

“I thought we started the game well and that we had good control, especially in the first 45 minutes,” Barker said. “We moved the ball around well, we were patient in our build-up, and we played with a lot of confidence.

“As expected, our opposition are a very well-coach and well-drilled team in terms of their defensive structure, which made it difficult for us to create chances.

“The key was to remain patient and keep probing, and then hopefully something would happen. As it was, from good open-play football, we ended up scoring from more of a messy situation.

“But, sometimes you get rewarded that way from the pressure you apply on the opposition, and something comes from it, and I thought we were worth our lead heading into the second half.

“It was important to come out after the break and keep up that pressure and intensity and ensure that we don’t make any errors that could lead to a goal. The aim was then to get a third goal and see if we could solidify our position, which we fortunately did.

“The last 20-25 was a bit scrappy as both teams made substitutes and the game lost a bit of rhythm. They looked dangerous on transition with us giving possession away, but overall I can only be happy and proud.

“It was our first-ever inter-continental club game, so to come away from home and win the game 3-0, credit must go to the players for a really good performance.”