Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel believes his side’s spirit and belief could once again inspire a famous cup triumph when they meet Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
The Natal Rich Boyz have already proven they can upset the Soweto giants, having eliminated Pirates from the same competition at the quarter-final stage in 2023, triumphing via a dramatic penalty shootout.
For Gabriel, that victory remains a reference point for what is possible when his side performs with unity and conviction.
“Yeah, while planning for this game here, we always tap into that type of energy, that type of experience,” said Gabriel.
“We go back to beating Pirates in the same fixture, and this year we want to do the same thing. The belief is there and the group is buying into it.”
That historic win continues to fuel confidence in the Richards Bay camp, even as they prepare to face a Pirates side high on momentum after midweek victory over Golden Arrows to make it 14 matches unbeaten domestically.
Gabriel knows that the challenge this time will be even tougher, but insists the mindset within his camp is positive and focused.
“They understand that at this stage of a cup competition, if you put in the right energy and performance, we’ll give Pirates a run for their money,” he said.
“These moments are what players live for — the pressure, the crowd, the big stage.”
Gabriel’s squad features a mix of seasoned campaigners like former Pirates man Gabadhino Mhango and Knox Mutizwa and young, energetic players eager to make their mark.
The coach is confident that striking the right balance between composure and enthusiasm could be key to unlocking another famous result.
“We have players like Mhango and Mutizwa here who have bundles of experience, so we’ll tap into that and blend that with the youngsters and their energy ahead of Saturday,” Gabriel explained.
“That mix gives us balance and keeps everyone sharp and hungry.”
Richards Bay’s preparation has also focused on managing emotions and maintaining tactical discipline against a star-studded Pirates side boasting match-winners across the park.
Gabriel knows that any lapse in concentration could prove costly against a team of their calibre.
“We know the galaxy of stars at the disposal of Pirates, we understand what we’re coming up against,” he admitted. “We have to plan adequately and be ready for the occasion — and possibly add a little bit of adrenaline and enthusiasm, and maybe that will take us through to the final.”
A win would mark Richards Bay’s first Carling Knockout final appearance in the top flight and serve as another statement of their growing maturity under Gabriel’s leadership.
“It’s about belief, energy, and preparation,” he concluded. “If we get those right again, anything is possible.”
