Gabriel: Mahala Is Something Else
Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel believes powerful striker Lundi Mahala has the potential to become one of the league’s top scorers, backing the forward to deliver plenty of goals this season.
Mahala was a dominant figure as Richards Bay played to an entertaining 2–2 draw against Golden Arrows in the KwaZulu-Natal derby at Umhlathuze Sports Ground on Friday night.
After Richards Bay had taken the lead and then fallen behind, Mahala rose highest to power home a crucial 65th-minute equaliser, heading in a cross from Moses Mthembu, who had earlier opened the scoring from the penalty spot.
Notably, Mahala was fouled inside the box in the ninth minute, leading to a penalty that Richards Bay converted into its first goal, underlining his influence throughout the match.
The Natal Rich Boyz showed resilience to secure the draw after Arrows had equalised through Lungelo Nguse and gone ahead via Siyanda Ndlovu. Mahala’s intervention ensured the KZN side has suffered just one home defeat all season in the Betway Premiership.
“Mahala has been fantastic for us so far,” said Gabriel after the game.
“I think his physicality, mobility and aerial ability are giving defenders in this league a very tough time.
“You saw on Friday that Golden Arrows struggled to deal with him. In terms of ball protection, aerial strength, getting into advanced positions and running into half-spaces, the boy is growing in leaps and bounds.
“The goals are coming, and we expect even better things. He has a good head on his shoulders, huge potential, and he is going to score many goals in this league.”
Mahala, who joined Richards Bay during the off-season, has now scored five goals in 18 matches across all competitions this season.
Gabriel will once again rely on Mahala to deliver when Richards Bay travel to face Siwelele in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 at Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday (18:00).
