“Sundowns Were For The Taking” – Gabriel Blasts Missed Chances In Bay Stalemate

Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel believes Mamelodi Sundowns were “there for the taking” following a goalless draw on Sunday, lamenting the numerous missed opportunities that cost his side a historic victory.

Despite never having beaten Sundowns in their history, the Natal Rich Boys created several clear-cut chances.

Sanele Barns fired a shot directly at Ronwen Williams, while Lundi Mahala saw his effort blocked by Keanu Cupido after Barns had already rounded the keeper.

However, Sundowns nearly snatched a late winner when PSL all-time top scorer Peter Shalulile found space to turn, only to fire wide.

Richards Bay remained defensively disciplined throughout the match. Barns and Thulani Gumede proved to be constant threats to their illustrious opponents at the Umhlathuze Sports Complex.

“As much as Sundowns is the best team in Africa, I’m sure you saw today that they were here for the taking,” Gabriel said on the club’s website.

“We could have taken all three points. It was a strong performance, and we are happy with the group’s progress.”

Richards Bay has turned their home ground into a fortress, suffering only one home loss recently—against Orbit College.

In addition to drawing with Sundowns, they have beaten Kaizer Chiefs and held title-contenders Orlando Pirates to a 2-2 draw.

Currently 10th in the table with 31 points after 26 matches, the team is unbeaten in their last four outings. Gabriel noted that while the performances have been consistent, the results are finally starting to follow.

“In terms of performance, especially here at home, we are creating numerous scoring chances and dominating teams,” Gabriel added.

“The worrying factor was our away form; we felt we left points on the table. However, we managed to secure three points against TS Galaxy last week.”

The coach believes the squad is finding its rhythm just as the season reaches its climax.

“The form and the group are improving—they are growing in leaps and bounds. You must remember the league is a marathon, not a sprint. We are peaking at the right moment. Being unbeaten in four games at this stage of the season is a major achievement in the PSL. With four games remaining, I believe we will remain solid, structured, and hard to beat until the very end.”