Ronnie Gabriel resigns as Richards Bay head coach after winless start

Richards Bay head coach Ronnie Gabriel has resigned with immediate effect following the club’s winless opening to the new campaign.

The Natal Richboyz have drawn three and lost three of their first six matches, with their most recent result a 5-1 defeat by Premiership rookies Milford last weekend.

“Richards Bay Football Club is sad to announce that Head Coach Ronnie Gabriel has resigned from the club with immediate effect,” the club said.

“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.”

The announcement follows reports that Richards Bay had already identified Phuti Mohafe and Adnan Beganovic as potential replacements while considering whether to retain Gabriel for another match or end his tenure.

Mohafe was an early contender for the vacancy after leaving Marumo Gallants following only five games in charge. He had joined the club after three impressive seasons at Polokwane City, where he helped establish the club in the league after winning promotion.

However, sources within Richards Bay have confirmed that the club has now made contact with Beganovic, who departed TS Galaxy towards the latter stages of last season after guiding them to the Nedbank Cup final.

Talks between Richards Bay and the Bosnian’s representatives are understood to have progressed well, although other candidates remain under consideration for the position.