Gabriel Backs Xulu For 10-Goal Season After Kaizer Chiefs Brace
Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel believes newly signed striker Nqaba Xulu has the potential to become a 10-to-12-goal scorer this season as the technical team continues to refine his game.
Xulu, who joined the Natal Rich Boys from Milford FC during the off-season, has made an immediate splash in top-flight football, scoring three goals in his last two outings.
The young forward bagged a brace on Wednesday during a thrilling 2-2 draw against Kaizer Chiefs at Princess Magogo Stadium. For his first goal, Xulu capitalized on Chiefs’ attempt to play out from the back, pressing goalkeeper Brandon Petersen into an error that saw the ball ricochet into the net. He doubled his tally with predatory instincts, rising highest to head home from a corner kick.
That performance followed his brilliant strike in a 1-1 draw against Durban City, where Xulu turned defender Sphamandla Ncanana before curling a long-range effort into the far corner.
Speaking after Wednesday’s match, Gabriel praised Xulu’s immediate impact while acknowledging that the young forward is still adjusting to life in the Betway Premiership.
“He has been brilliant so far for us and has proven to be a fantastic signing,” said Gabriel. “He has shown his value and quality, proving he can perform consistently at this level. What better way to repay the club than by scoring week in and week out? Now we just need to continue working with him and polish the areas that need improvement. He can easily reach 10 to 12 goals this season.”
Currently sitting 12th in the standings with three points from four matches, Richards Bay will host KZN rivals AmaZulu at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu next Friday.
