Coach Steve Barker has stated that Stellenbosch FC will use last season's controversial MTN8 final loss to Orlando Pirates as a motivation.

Bucs and Stellies are set to meet again in the final of the domestic tournament, and this rekindles what occurred when the two sides met last season at the same stage.

Pirates ended up lifting the cup, but this came after a controversial goal; their second goal was scored from an incorrectly taken free kick when the scoreline was at 1-1.

It is this setback that Barker has said his players will use as motivation going into the Saturday game.

“Obviously, the disappointment of last season, in terms of a massive controversial decision near the end of the match, which changed the course of the game,” Barker told the media.

“Again, I'm just hoping that [in] this final, the best team wins, and it is not decided on a controversial moment," he added.

"We still feel that sort of disappointment, and hopefully, that will drive us to be even better than in last year's final and a lot better than what we were in the league this season. If we fail to be better than what we were recently against them, then it's going to be tough for us."

However, Barker believes Pirates have an advantage because they have several players in the national team. To the tactician, this points out how the Sea Robbers are actually a better team.

“Look, obviously, it shows testimony to what a good team they have built. To have seven players in the national team, and maybe one or two who are injured, who could have been in the national team. Basically, they got national team players, which shows the quality," he added.

“At the same time, what's in our favour and advantage is that we only have Thabo currently there [with Bafana Bafana], which has allowed us this week to prepare with our full squad except one," Barker explained.

"Where else are Pirates likely to get their players really fresh and ready to prepare from Wednesday or Thursday onwards? But it doesn't make it easier because it just shows the quality that they have... that [they] are all playing at the national level.”

Sipho Chaine, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, Thalente Mbatha, Kamogelo Sebelebele, and Relebohile Mofokeng are Pirates players who were on national duty with Bafana Bafana.

Stellies had Thabo Moloisane, and all these players are key for their respective sides.

As the Maroons are looking for revenge for last season's loss, Pirates, on the other hand, are looking to become the first club to lift the MTN8 cup four times straight.

The MTN8 final is set to be played at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.