Richards Bay FC head coach Vusi Vilakazi has emphasized the importance of the upcoming PSL promotion/relegation playoffs for the club’s staff and their families.

The Natal Rich Boyz kick off their playoff campaign by hosting University of Pretoria at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Wednesday (15:00).

This comes after finishing 15th in the DStv Premiership, forcing them into the playoffs to retain their top-flight status.

University of Pretoria currently lead the mini-league standings after defeating Baroka FC 1-0 at home on Sunday. Richards Bay’s last league game was a win against third-placed Stellenbosch FC, but it wasn’t enough to avoid the playoffs.

“The players know the importance of saving the team,” said Vilakazi. 

“When you look at the numbers of workers at Richards Bay, maybe it is around 50 and that simply means there are more families we are feeding with those 50 people. 

“So, we can’t let that opportunity pass our way. We just need to work hard, and the nice part is that if you work hard and you become victorious, then we will retain the status and that is what we need to do.  

“We just need to instill that in their minds. But with the potential and the commitment I am sure that I cannot doubt because as I said in the past seven games we have been competing strongly.”

The coach expressed confidence in his team, citing their recent strong showings: victories over Orlando Pirates (away), Kaizer Chiefs (home), and Stellenbosch FC, as well as holding champions Mamelodi Sundowns until a late winner.

““So, if you can have that attitude against Baroka FC and AmaTuks, we can be victorious,” Vilakazi concluded.