Richards Bay end Ronnie Gabriel reign after winless start

Richards Bay have parted ways with head coach Ronnie Gabriel with immediate effect after failing to win any of their first six matches in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.

The Natal Rich Boyz confirmed Gabriel’s resignation on Thursday, thanking him for his contribution during his time at the club and wishing him well for the future.

Richards Bay did not disclose the reason for his departure. The club said more information about the appointment of a new coach would be provided in due course.

Gabriel leaves with the side having collected only three points from a possible 18. Their opening six league fixtures produced three draws and three defeats, with Richards Bay scoring seven goals and conceding 13.

The campaign began with a home defeat by Polokwane City. Richards Bay then drew away to Chippa United before recording another draw against Durban City.

They also shared the points with Kaizer Chiefs, but followed that result with a defeat by AmaZulu.

Their latest match brought further pressure on Gabriel as Richards Bay lost to newly promoted Milford FC on Sunday. That result left the club still without a league victory and prompted the decision to make a change in the dugout.

Gabriel had acknowledged after the winless run that the absence of a victory risked creating a mental block among his players.

Richards Bay must now identify a replacement while the campaign remains in its early stages. Their next Betway Premiership fixture is against Sekhukhune United on September 19, leaving the incoming coach limited time to prepare for the match.

The Natal Rich Boyz will hope the managerial change can bring an immediate improvement and help them move away from the bottom end of the table.