Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has made his first public statement after the terrible death of player Oshwin Andries on Saturday.
Two weekends ago, Andries was reportedly stabbed to death in his Klapmuts, Cape Town home, and he passed away on Saturday due to complications from his injuries.
Barker began his address to the media at the Nedbank Cup round of 32 match preview versus Swallows FC by lamenting the loss of the young star and reflecting on his brief career.
“As a football club, we are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of such a talented young player,” said Barker. “He was only 19 years old.”
“It hasn’t been easy for us as a football club. Oshwin has been with us since he was a small child. He began his career as a Marties player, where he was a rising star. He later joined our youth programme, where he played from under 14 to under 16 and was named the under 16 player of the year.
“He recently became a member of our DDC [DStv Disski Challenge] squad. During his DDC career, he helped the team win the league, so he is a league winner — he traveled with the squad to the UK for the Next Gen event. To be able to play and win tournaments, to score a “David Beckham-esque” goal from his own half, to return, get promoted, and play for the PSL squad.”
Barker continued by reminiscing about the 19-year-old, stating that Andries was a gutsy and talented player.
The performances he had at Danie Craven this season are three things I will never forget. In his first full start against Orlando Pirates, he was man-of-the-match. Against Royal AM, he carried, passed, received, and scored a goal, and again scored a stunning goal from the edge of his own penalty area.
“His most recent appearance was against Cape Town City, and he once again delivered an outstanding effort. He will be proud of his performance, which was full of daring, bravery, and excellence, considering it was his last game,” he continued.
On Saturday afternoon, Stellies welcome Ernst Middendorp and his team to the Athlone Stadium. The game begins at 3pm.
»Andries was a bold and talented athlete – Steve Barker«
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