Gabriel: We’ll Have To Box Clever To Beat Pirates
Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel says his side will need to be smart and disciplined in every department if they are to overcome Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout semi-final on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium (15:00).
The Natal Rich Boyz are appearing in the semi-finals for the third consecutive season, and Gabriel has emphasized the importance of taking the next step by making history and reaching the final for the first time in the club’s history.
“I think it’s a tough one. When you look at Pirates — their attacking play, structure, and the quality of players they have — they are definitely advanced compared to us,” said Gabriel.
“So we’ll have to box clever on the day. We don’t want to open ourselves up too easily. Maybe we’ll keep it a bit cagey and tight, build some confidence as the game goes on, and look to steal it later.
“Opening up too early against this Pirates team would be too risky. Looking at our squad, you don’t want to go down a goal or two early because it will be hard to claw our way back, especially given the magnitude of the occasion here at Moses Mabhida Stadium.”
Richards Bay have history on their side — they stunned Pirates in the 2023/24 Carling Cup, knocking them out on penalties in the quarter-finals at Moses Mabhida Stadium. However, they later lost to Stellenbosch FC in the semi-finals, with Stellies going on to lift the trophy.
This time, Gabriel is counting on the experience of assistant coach Papi Zothwane, who won the Carling Knockout Cup last season with Magesi FC as Clinton Larsen’s assistant. Notably, Magesi also defeated Richards Bay in the semi-finals on their way to glory.
“Yes, having been part of a winning team in the Carling Knockout, Papi knows what it takes to win these types of games,” Gabriel added.
“He brings a calming influence to the team and the intelligence we need to progress. So far, it has worked majestically well for us, and we hope it continues to do so and takes us to the final.”
