Bradley Grobler to miss Carling Knockout tie after father Les dies

Stellenbosch FC striker Bradley Grobler is expected to miss Wednesday night’s Carling Knockout last-16 match against Durban City following the death of his father, Moroka Swallows legend Les Grobler.

The match will be played at Chatsworth Stadium in Durban South, with kick-off scheduled for 7pm.

Les Grobler’s death has prompted mourning across South African football, while Stellenbosch FC must prepare to face Durban City without one of their most experienced forwards.

For Bradley, however, the loss is far greater than its impact on the team. Les was his first coach, guiding him from the age of three until he signed his first professional contract at 19.

Their relationship was built around a lifelong connection to football, with Les combining the roles of father, mentor and coach as his son developed into a prolific striker.

Les established his own reputation during the late 1980s and early 1990s as a powerful and clinical forward for Moroka Swallows. His strength in the air and ability to score important goals in cup football made him a prominent figure in the old National Soccer League (NSL).

He was part of the Moroka Swallows side that won the 1989 Mainstay Cup, further cementing his place in the club’s history.

The finishing ability that defined Les’ career was later reflected in his son. Under his father’s guidance, Bradley became one of the most reliable goalscorers in Premier Soccer League (PSL) history.

Bradley’s top-flight career has included spells with Silver Stars and SuperSport United, before his move to Stellenbosch. He has scored more than 100 PSL goals and ranks among the competition’s leading marksmen.

His absence will be felt by Stellenbosch as they begin their Carling Knockout campaign without their veteran striker. The circumstances have also prompted tributes to Les and Bradley, whose shared football journey has left a lasting mark on the South African game.