Christmas is supposed to be a time for joy, family, and giving. But for Richards Bay FC coach Kaitano Tembo, this December 25th was anything but merry.
Instead of unwrapping presents under the tree, Tembo found himself unwrapping a rather unwelcome surprise from Richards Bay.
Tembo’s inability to move Richards Bay FC out of the relegation zone at the halfway stage of the season with a meagre four wins from 18 games ultimately led to his Christmas Day dismissal.
The former SuperSport United coach Tembo’s tenure at Richards Bay was plagued by inconsistencies. Under his leadership, the ‘Natal Rich Boyz’ won only four games, lost a staggering ten, and managed a mere four draws. This dismal performance left them languishing in 15th place on the DStv Premiership log.
“Richards Bay Football Club would like to announce the release of the Head Coach, Mr. Kaitano Tembo, with immediate effect,” reads the club statement.
“The Club would like to thank the coach for his contribution during this season. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
RICHARDS BAY SACK COACH TEMBO
Richards Bay are six points above Cape Town Spurs, who are at the bottom of the log standings with a single win in 15 outings.
Tembo, who was appointed head coach at Bay ahead of the 2023/24 season, played his last game at the helm on Saturday as the club lost 1-0 to Kaizer Chiefs in a league clash at FNB Stadium.
One noteworthy highlight of Tembo’s time at the wheel was leading Richards Bay to the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup, where they unfortunately fell 3-0 to Stellenbosch FC.
Richards Bay announced that Tembo has been replaced by Vusimuzi Vilakazi. The latter steps in as interim coach, tasked with navigating the turbulent waters and guiding the club through this delicate transition period.
“Senior Coach Mr. Vusi Vilakazi will take over the first team until further notice.”
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