Gabriel – Why We Brought Back Barns
Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel says bringing back Sanele Barns was a no-brainer, as the midfielder is already familiar with the club’s culture.
The Natal Rich Boyz signed Barns on loan from Stellenbosch FC during the January transfer window until the end of the season, just a year after he left the KwaZulu-Natal side ahead of the start of the previous campaign.
Barns previously departed the club after playing a crucial role in helping Bay avoid relegation through the PSL promotion and relegation play-offs in the 2023/23 season.
With Barns now back at the club, Gabriel says he is relying on the player’s experience as Richards Bay once again target a top-eight finish this season.
“We are bringing him back to the club knowing that he had a fantastic stint with us. He contributed immensely to the success of the team,” said Gabriel, who holds a CAF A Licence.
“He went through the rigours of the team, he knows exactly what the team is about, and he understands the culture.
“Bringing him back was absolutely a no-brainer. We are ecstatic to have him back at the club. We know he will use his experience to lead the youngsters and guide them, and we are expecting good things from him.
“He has looked good in training over the past two weeks, showing positive signs, and now that needs to translate into performances on the pitch.
“He knows the role he needs to play and understands his responsibilities.”
Barns came off the bench as Richards Bay drew 2–2 with Golden Arrows in an entertaining Betway Premiership match at the Umhlathuze Sports Ground on Friday.
The club will again rely on Barns’ experience when they visit Siwelele in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday.
The two sides met recently in Richards Bay, where the match ended in a 1–1 draw last month.
Gabriel is hoping to replicate the success Richards Bay enjoyed in the Carling Knockout, where they reached the semi-finals before being eliminated by eventual winners Orlando Pirates.
“We are also taking the Nedbank Cup very seriously,” Gabriel added.
“We want to progress to the next round, advance further in the competition and do well in this cup. That is our mindset going into the Nedbank Cup.”
