How Barker has helped Iqraam Rayners get his groove back

Iqraam Rayners has found found his groove since rejoining Stellenbosch FC from SuperSport United in January. 

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In 13 games, Rayners has scored 10 goals. Six of those came in just three games in the Nedbank Cup where he hopes they can go all the way and win it.

Rayners endured a difficult stay at SuperSport United whom he joined three seasons ago after leaving Stellies where he first made a name for himself.

And in an interview on Radio 2000’s Game On this week, Rayners has revealed how coach Steve Barker has helped him recapture his form.

“I am enjoying playing with these guys and we are creating the opportunities. And I am always at the right place at the right time,” said Raybers. 

“I am just happy to help the team and score more goals as time goes on,” added Rayners. 

Rayners was Stellies’ top scorer when they won promotion from the first division in 2019.

“I scored 19 goals in the first division in 30 games, and me and coach Steve Barker have always had an understanding. 

“He and his technical team have always believed in me and I am just happy to give them my best and help the team. That is all that matters to me. 

“I didn’t expect it (to hit the ground running at Stellies). When I arrived from SuperSport in January, I set myself a target of 10 goals for the next five months. 

Rayners given freedom by Barker

“But now I can push for more league goals and by the end of the season I can have 11 or 12 or even more. I have only three games left.”

Rayners has been well received at his old club and given the freedom to play the way he sees fit as he leads the side’s attack. 

“I am playing a different role at Stellenbosch. Coach Steve knows how to use me, I am happy for my form and for the team.

“We are in a good position on the log now. I am playing more of a free role. But for me to score goals, I have to be more central and I don’t move much to the wide areas.” 

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Rayners will hope to add onto his goals when they host Golden Arrows on Saturday. He also confessed his wish for them to win the Nedbank Cup. 

Stellies will play Sekhukhune United in the semifinals on 7 May in Cape Town.