A moving tribute to Oshwin Andries was delivered by Steve Barker at a Mother City press conference on Wednesday. He displayed remarkable restraint.
The talented 19-year old was making a name in South African football when he tragically died last Saturday from complications from a knife injury.
Barker shared his thoughts about Andries’ blossoming career, which was tragically cut short just a few days back. He was a shining star from the moment Andries started playing for the club’s reserve team in the DStv Diski Challenge, to the point when he moved up to Stellenbosch FC in top flight football.
His achievements were not overlooked and the 19-year old midfield prodigy was named captain for the South African Under-20 soccer team.
Andries was part of the Stellenbosch team which won the Diski Challenge last season. Part of their prize was a trip for two to England to compete in the Premier League Next Generation Cup competition.
After Leicester City’s 7-2 defeat by Winelands, Andries played a stellar tournament that helped Stellenbosch win.
Andries’ wonder goal will be long remembered because it was a “David Beckhamish-type goal from (almost?) in his own half”.
Barker recalled that he had graduated from our DStv Diski Challenge team not too long ago.
He was a successful DDC player and helped the team win the league. So he is a league champion.
He travelled with the team to England for Next Gen. It was a special experience to be able play in the tournament and win it, as well as to score a goal he called ‘David Beckhamish’ from his own half.
“When he returned, he was promoted and had starts with the Premiership Team.”
Barker, 55, is a nephew to South Africa‘s most renowned football coach, Clive ‘The Dog’ Barker. He said he met Andries at the club in 2016 when he moved to the Winelands.
“It has been difficult for us as a football team since the passing Oshwin. Barker said that the tragic loss at 19 of such a gifted young player has left Barker deeply sad.
“Oshwin was with us since a young age, starting at the Maties (Stellenbosch University), where he played as a young star.
“He joined our youth program and played for the Under-14 and then he was named the Under-16 Player of The Season two seasons later.”
Barker stated that he has made a huge impact on the Premiership club’s headquarters, the Danie Craven Stadium, since he rose to the top of the team.
Barker stated, “There are three things I will always remember about him: the performances he gave at Danie Craven in this season.”
“In his debut full-time, he was Man Of The Match against Orlando Pirates.
He continued that in the next match against Royal AM. After bringing the ball from his box’s edge, he scored a spectacular goal. He was able to carry, pass, receive and score a goal.
“His last appearance was against Cape Town City. He put forth a strong performance again.
“I have reminded the players many times to play football as if it were your last. He will be proud of the performance, which was full of courage and bravery, since it was his last game.
