Gumede demands 150% effort as Richards Bay remain without a win

Richards Bay interim co-head coach Siboniso “Jomo” Gumede has called for 150% commitment from his players after Mamelodi Sundowns condemned the Natal Rich Boyz to their fifth defeat of the season.

Mamelodi Sundowns scored four times against Ian Otieno in a one-sided league match at Princess Magogo Stadium, leaving Richards Bay still searching for their first victory of the campaign.

The KwaZulu-Natal side have taken three points from their opening eight league matches, recording three draws alongside five defeats. That poor start has placed Richards Bay firmly in the relegation battle.

Gumede said there was no reason for the club to panic, despite acknowledging the pressure created by their position in the standings. He also addressed a goal that was disallowed during the first half of the defeat.

Experience of survival

The interim co-head coach said Richards Bay were familiar with the relegation zone and believed the club’s previous experience of fighting for survival could help them manage their current difficulties.

He backed the young squad to gradually move away from danger, but said the players and coaching staff would need to maintain their focus during a demanding period.

Gumede highlighted encouraging aspects of the team’s performances despite their difficult opening to the season. In his assessment, the young Richards Bay group had shown enough ability to suggest they could recover from their current position.

He said that belief and a strong work ethic would be important if the Natal Rich Boyz were to begin changing the direction of their campaign. The coach’s message to the squad was that greater commitment would be required as they attempt to secure their first win.

Important fixtures ahead

Richards Bay’s next opportunity to end their winless run will come at the end of the month, when they travel to Mpumalanga to play Kruger United.

They will then return home to face Stellenbosch FC on 4 November. Those two matches could have a significant bearing on the club’s position and the course of the season.

While the heavy loss to Mamelodi Sundowns leaves Richards Bay under increased pressure, Gumede’s focus is on ensuring the players respond in the upcoming fixtures rather than allowing the result to trigger panic.

The coach believes the squad’s youth, combined with its determination and the club’s experience of battling near the bottom of the table, can still help Richards Bay steer clear of trouble.