Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker says he is proud of his team’s performance in the MTN8 despite not making it to the final.

Stellies secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Orlando Pirates on Sunday but failed to secure their spot in the final after Pirates went through on the away goal rule after the two-legged tie ended 2-2.

As a result, the Buccaneers will now move on to the final where they will take on Mamelodi Sundowns at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on October 7.

Although Barker was proud of his team’s efforts he still has mixed emotions about not reaching the final two.

“Obviously, mixed emotions,” Barker told SuperSport TV after the game.

“You win the game but you don’t advance to the final. So again, I’ve got to be really proud of what we’ve done today.

“You know, we’ve had a tough week, coming into the game, suspensions, transfers, injuries. But ja, it does give opportunity to others. And a lot of them stood up today and really fought.

“And ja, maybe a little bit of luck we could have got more out of the game. But ja, I’m just really proud of the effort that was put in today.”

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