Beganovic emerges as favourite to replace Gabriel at Richards Bay FC

Richards Bay FC head coach Ronnie Gabriel has resigned with immediate effect after the club’s difficult start to the season, with former TS Galaxy coach Adnan Beganovic the leading candidate to succeed him.

Gabriel’s departure follows a 5-1 defeat by newcomers Milford last week, a result that extended Richards Bay’s wait for their first league victory after six matches.

The Natal Rich Boyz have drawn three and lost three of their opening fixtures, collecting three points from a possible 18. They are currently 14th on the log.

Richards Bay appointed Gabriel as head coach after the departure of co-coach Papi Zothwane, who subsequently took charge of Sekhukhune United. Gabriel had previously been part of the club’s technical team before taking on the head-coach role.

“Richards Bay Football Club is sad to announce that head coach Ronnie Gabriel has resigned from the club with immediate effect,” the club said in a statement.

“The club expresses its sincere appreciation to coach Ronnie Gabriel for his dedication, professionalism and contribution during his tenure for the past seasons with the club as our technical team member and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.

“Further updates on the new coach will be provided in due course.”

Beganovic, who previously managed TS Galaxy, is regarded as the front-runner for the position as Richards Bay seek to halt their poor run of results.

Gabriel is the latest coach to leave a club in the current season, joining Cedric Kaze, Phuti Mohafe and Lehlohonolo Seema among those who have departed their posts.