Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel has issued a stern warning to his players to avoid excessive indulgence during the festive season, saying they should put the team first that pays their salaries.

With a crucial match against log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns looming on 28 December, Gabriel emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and discipline.

The KwaZulu-Natal side is currently riding high after their recent 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows this past weekend. This win lifted them off the bottom of the Betway Premiership table and provided a much-needed boost to their morale.

Gabriel acknowledged the challenges of balancing festive commitments with professional duties: “Funny enough, we have already spoken about that in our team talk,” said Gabriel. 

“We had heart-to-heart conversation with the boys. We are not in the luxurious position where the boys can have holidays and go out there and do whatever they feel like, they know that they have to put the club first, sacrifice this festive season just for the benefit of the club. 

“So, we are all on the same wavelength, we are all pulling in the same direction and hopefully it would yield the results.”  

The coach also shed light on the tactical changes implemented since taking over from Brandon Truter: “It was a case of confrontation – we were trying to press in the middle block high up the pitch,” he explained. 

“We tried to win the ball high the pitch and it was the same story last weekend against SuperSport United. So, we want to take the initiative, we want to be more arrogant both on the offensive and defensive phases of the game. 
“And the youngsters showed that they can compete at this level. If we give them more belief and prepare them correctly week in and week out, we can be able to get the results.”