Gabriel proud despite Bay’s ‘gracious defeat’ by Pirates

Richards Bay mentor Ronnie Gabriel is proud of his troops’ performance, despite losing 1-0 to Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout semifinals at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.Gabriel maintained it was a “gracious defeat” As he thought they gave the Buccaneers high-flying Buccaneers an excellent run for their money. Tshepang Mostmi scored in the 42nd minutes. It was the 25-year-old winger’s eighth goal of the season across competitions, as he’s proven to be Bucs’ main source of goals in big matches this season.“First I must say it was a commendable display by the group,” Gabriel “We gave Pirates numerous nervous moments right to the final whistle…it even ended up with them resorting to time-delaying tactics such that even their goalkeeper [Sipho Chaine] ended up with a yellow card.“So, very seldom do you see a Pirates team under so much pressure and siege. We are disappointed with the result, but in terms of the performance, we are not disappointed…I feel that it was a gracious defeat.”Natal Rich Boyz head coach Natal Rich Boyz wants his team to build upon their brave Carling Knockout semi-finals performance against Pirates, as they turn their attention to the league where they will next host KZN Rival Durban City Richards Bay Stadium will host a match on the 23rd of November. Bay has won only three of the 12 matches they have played in the league so far. They have also lost five and drawn four.“We accept this result, but we must take the positives out of it and continue to grow in our league performances,” Gabriel said.Sowetan
2025-11-09 10:33:31