Richards Bay Coach Ronnie Gabriel Targets Final After Reaching Third Straight Semi-Final
The Natal Rich Boys secured their third consecutive League Cup semi-final appearance after defeating provincial rivals Durban City 3-1 at the Umhlathuze Sports Ground on Saturday.
Coach Ronnie Gabriel expressed the team's determination to break their semi-final jinx, having previously lost to Stellenbosch FC in the 2023/24 campaign and to Magesi FC in the prior season.
Notably, both teams that defeated Richards Bay went on to win the title.
“We have always been at this stage; this year we want to take it a step further,” Gabriel stated. “We want to give the fans something to cheer about — maybe even a final appearance. That would be a remarkable achievement for the team.”
Gabriel also emphasized the need for the team's performances to translate into their league fixtures. “If we can collect a few wins in the league and stay comfortable there while doing well in the cup, that would be great for the club.”
This season marks Richards Bay’s highly anticipated return to their home base, after playing home fixtures at King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban since the early stages of the 2021/22 season. They achieved promotion from the Motsepe Foundation Championship prior to their return.
Fans in Umhlathuze have filled the stands, creating a vibrant atmosphere in support of the team. With limited entertainment options in the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, professional football has become the primary attraction.
Gabriel hopes to leverage this enthusiasm and aims to secure a home draw for the semi-final, stating, “You can really feel their presence. The drive and push they give to the players out here is second to none. It’s a fantastic place to play. The supporters are truly playing their part.”
“We needed that home support to push us over the line, and they came to the party,” he added.
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