Stellenbosch aiming to keep unbeaten PSL record against Galaxy intact

Stellenbosch head coach Steve Barker has lamented the absence of Iqraam Rayners ahead of their DStv Premiership clash with TS Galaxy at the Danie Craven Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Kick-off is at 7.30pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

Rayners missed the 3-1 defeat at Mamelodi Sundowns last Wednesday after sustaining a hamstring injury against Orlando Pirates in the MTN 8 three days earlier.

The former SuperSport United striker, who has scored just once in seven top-flight appearances this season, will also be unavailable for the visit of the Rockets as Stellies attempt to arrest a five-match winless run in the league.

Four losses in their last five games has left the Maroons just one point outside the danger zone in 14th place and Barker admitted that Rayners was sorely missed against the Brazilians.

"In our last five encounters [against Sundowns], we have won two, drawn two and lost once. Now it's six after this match. We showed that we are capable of taking on a team like Sundowns and beating them," he said.

"The key is normally, when we play them we cause problems in transition. But if a player like Rayners is not available it doesn't help you."

Galaxy are also looking to get back on the winning trail after a 1-1 draw with Richards Bay on Sunday saw them pick up only their second point in four outings.

Back-to-back home draws maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign at the Mbombela Stadium, but Sead Ramovic's side have yet won win on the road in 2023-24.

The Rockets, who are two points better off than Stellies in 11th position, have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of Vladimir Siladi in a bid to address their problems in front of goal.

Siladi actually made his debut against the Natal Rich Boyz as a