Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel was content with a point after his team’s goalless draw against Siwelele in their recent Betway Premiership clash.
Both sides have had a difficult start to the season, with just one win from five games played.
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Speaking to IOL after the match at the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium, Gabriel explained his satisfaction with the result. “Taking into consideration that it was an away game against a strong Siwelele, we will settle for a draw and take the point back home,” he said.
Gabriel was particularly pleased with his team’s performance, calling it “encouraging” given they were away from home.
He acknowledged that Siwelele started as the stronger side, but felt his team grew into the game as the first half progressed. “We dominated the exchanges and created a few goal-scoring chances,” he added.
During the halftime break, Gabriel had a clear message for his players. “We spoke during the break that they would be throwing numbers forward as it’s their home game. They were going to be more offensive and use their wing play, and we had to contain the crosses and the box entries.”
His instructions paid off, as Richards Bay successfully managed Siwelele’s offensive push in the second half while creating opportunities of their own.
“As the half continued, we got back into the game and we created a few chances, and I felt like we could have stolen the three points at the death,” Gabriel noted.
Ultimately, the coach sees the draw as a positive step. “But we are happy, and we will take the one point. We will continue to build blocks for Richards Bay: three points, one point, go back home and try for another three points.”
Richards Bay will look to capitalize on this result when they return to action after the international break, hosting TS Galaxy on September 17. Kick off is set for 19h30 in Kwa-Zulu Natal.