Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel referred to his team’s 4-0 loss in the MTN8 quarter-finals against Mamelodi Sundowns as a timely wake-up call.
Speaking after the match at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday, Gabriel said the Natal Rich Boyz were punished for “cheap” errors, while also acknowledging the gulf in quality between the two sides.
“All credit should go to Sundowns, but I felt we also gave away cheap goals – I mean, you look at the set-piece goal, an own goal and a deflection as well,” said Gabriel after the game.
“We played a tough Sundowns team and there’ll be a lot we’ve learnt from this game. I’m sure we’ll become a better team after this as we get ready to start the league next Saturday.
“Playing Sundowns does give us an indication of where we are right now.
“(Sunday) it was all about sharpness from the players and seeing our additions to the squad as well.”
The match saw Sundowns assert their dominance early, with Iqraam Rayners netting a brace. Siyabonga Mabena added a third via a deflected strike, while an own goal from Simphiwe Mcineka compounded Richards Bay’s misery.
Gabriel was quick to credit Sundowns for their pace, structure, and individual brilliance, describing the performance as a valuable test ahead of Richards Bay’s Betway Premiership opener.