Richards Bay's Gabriel laments ‘cheap' MTN8 exit against Mamelodi Sundowns
Image: Backpagepix
Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel admitted disappointment after his side's MTN8 campaign ended with a heavy 4-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns, describing the goals conceded as 'cheap' and preventable.
The Natal Rich Boyz were outclassed at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday, where a dominant Sundowns side booked their place in the semi-finals.
Coach of Richards Bay Ronnie Gabriel. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
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Iqraam Rayners netted twice, while Siyabonga Mabena scored a deflected strike and Simphiwe Mcineka turned the ball into his own net to cap off a difficult afternoon for the KZN side. While Gabriel acknowledged the gulf in class, he was frustrated with the manner in which his team conceded.
'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.'
Mabena goes on his own to make it four ⚽✨
📺 Stream #MTN8 on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/hLMKRpQrA6 — SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) August 3, 2025
Despite the disappointment of exiting the competition at the quarter-final stage, the fixture served as an important benchmark for Richards Bay as they prepare for their Betway Premiership opener.
Sundowns, with their pace, structure and individual brilliance, offered a reality check that Gabriel says came at the right time.
'Playing Sundowns does give us an indication of where we are right now,' he added. '(Sunday) it was all about sharpness from the players and seeing our additions to the squad as well.'
Gabriel and fellow co-coach Papi Zothwane have brought in several new faces during the off-season, and the MTN8 showdown was their first real opportunity to see how the revamped squad fares against elite opposition.
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