Richards Bay interim coach Ronnie Gabriel insists his team can eliminate the defending champions Orlando Pirates from the annual Nedbank Cup.
The Natal Rich Boys and the Buccaneers will be facing each other on Sunday in the Nedbank Cup's Round of 32 outing at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium. Last season, Richards Bay eliminated the Sea Robbers from the annual Carling Knockout competition through post-match penalties.
They followed it up with another 1-0 win at Orlando in the Premier Soccer League outing, It explains why coach Gabriel believes his team can still get past the Jose Riveiro-led outfit.
Richards Bay have a good squad
The caretaker coach has now claimed Richards Bay have beaten the Buccaneers before, and they can do it again.
“We know that Pirates are a team on the up and they are in good form. However, if you look at our previous games against them, we always give them a good competitive fixture. We always give them something to think about,” he said ahead of the game.
“Last year we went to Orlando and we beat them there on their home ground. So, we fancy our chances going into this fixture. We are not intimidated by the opposition as much as we respect them. We believe that we have a squad capable of handling Pirates on the day.”
We haven't decided on starting XI
Gabriel has confirmed they have not even settled on those who will be starting this weekend against the defending champions.
“The group is galvanised and looking ready for this fixture. This game also allows us to draw blood in new players to come in and have a chance to showcase their talent… as we know this cup is a cup of opportunities. We are confident going into the fixture,” he continued.
“We haven't yet decided on the starting XI but it'll be an ideal opportunity for us to bring in a few youngsters into the team. We've signed Macuphu from Royal and he trained with the team for two days. He's looking good and we're still monitoring him, so hopefully we can get him ready and maybe have a few minutes.”
