Richards Bay turn to interim duo after Ronnie Gabriel exit

The Natal Rich Boys are continuing their search for a permanent replacement and hope to confirm Gabriel’s successor during the upcoming FIFA international break.

Gabriel’s departure followed a difficult start to the campaign, with Richards Bay failing to win any of their opening six matches. They have collected three points from three draws, leaving them just above the relegation zone.

Gumede, who served as Gabriel’s assistant, will now work alongside Msomi, the club’s reserve-team coach, with the pair temporarily elevated to oversee the first team.

Their first assignment comes against Babina Noko at Princess Magogo Stadium, where Richards Bay will be desperate to secure their first three points of the campaign.

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Sekhukhune are also dealing with a coaching transition after recently parting ways with Cedric Kaze. Papi Zothwane has since been installed as interim coach and will lead Babina Noko into Saturday’s encounter.

The visitors currently sit eighth on the Betway Premiership table, while Richards Bay are third from bottom, making the fixture an important opportunity for both sides to arrest difficult runs of form.

For Richards Bay, however, the immediate priority is clear in terms of trying to stabilise the team under Gumede and Msomi while the club’s hierarchy works towards finding Gabriel’s permanent successor in the coming days.