Richards Bay FC coach Ronnie Gabriel talking to the media at the Nedbank Cup media open day in Durban on Wednesday. Sibonelo Ngcobo Independent Newspapers
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo
Richards Bay FC are on a roll, and they’re not looking to slow down anytime soon. After a string of impressive performances, the Natal Rich Boyz are buzzing with confidence as they prepare to host Chippa United in what promises to be an electrifying Betway Premiership clash.
The two teams will battle at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday in an 8pm kick-off, looking to boost their chances of winning and remaining in the league next season.
Placed uncomfortably just above the relegation zone, Bay have found their groove at just the right time.
Their recent form has been nothing short of impressive, with back-to-back wins in between two draws that have seen them string together a 4-game unbeaten run.
However, momentum can be a tricky customer and the challenge now is to keep it going against a Chilli Boys side desperate to turn their recent fortunes around.
The Natal Rich Boys have been one of the surprise packages in recent weeks under interim coach Ronnie Gabriel.
Their balanced approach—solid at the back and sharp in attack—has seen them collect crucial points and climb the table.
The KwaZulu-Natal-based club is playing with a kind of unity that’s hard to break down, and their attacking players are clicking at just the right time.
It’s been a rough ride for Chippa so far in 2025. Although in ninth spot on the standings, the Chilli Boys find themselves precariously close to the drop zone just four points away from their next opponents who are in 13th.
Just when Head coach Thabo September looks like he’s turned the corner, his side stumbles again with their three losses and two wins in their last five games reflecting this.
The Gqeberha-based side have struggled to impose themselves away this season and that has been their Achilles' heel.
But with seasoned campaigners in their ranks like Andile Jali, they’re more than capable of springing a surprise if Bay underestimate them.
For Bay, all eyes will be on their in-form Ntlonelo Bomelo, who has found his scoring boots at the highest level.
The 19-year-old’s finishing has tormented defenders, and he’ll be licking his lips at the prospect of facing a Chippa backline that’s been leaky this season as he looks for his third goal in four outings.
Chippa, on the other hand, will look to their midfield maestro, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, to dictate play. His vision and creativity could be crucial if they are to stand a chance against a well-organized Bay outfit.
The last time these two sides met, it ended in a hard-fought draw, highlighting just how evenly matched they are.
But with Richards Bay riding a wave of momentum and Chippa fighting to stay afloat, this encounter could be the tipping point for both teams.