Vusi Vilakazi, stepping into the hot seat after taking over as interim coach for Richards Bay FC on Christmas Day, celebrated a dream start with a 3-1 victory over SuperSport United in the DStv Premiership on Saturday.
The KZN outfit hosted SuperSport at the King Zwelithini Stadium. Facing immense pressure following the dismissal of Kaitano Tembo just days prior, Vilakazi rallied his troops to a convincing triumph, sending a roar of hope through the Richards Bay fans.
The win marks a crucial turnaround for the Natal Rich Boyz, who had only managed two victories in their previous 15 league matches under Tembo. Vilakazi, previously the club’s senior coach, appears to have injected a much-needed spark into the team.
SuperSport had opened the scoring in the 18th minute after Gamphani Lungu converted a penalty. Ime Okon was sent for an early shower in the 37th minute.
Just four minutes later, Thabani Dube levelled the scores before Somila Ntsundwana and Thulani Gumede added the other two goals.
Richards Bay’s resilience against a well-established team like SuperSport United signifies a potential change of fortunes for the club.
Whether Vilakazi’s winning formula can be sustained throughout the season and guide Richards Bay out of their current 15th position in the league standings remains to be seen. However, this opening victory is a testament to the coach’s leadership and a promising sign for the club’s future.
WHAT GAVIN HUNT SAID ABOUT VUSI VILAKAZI’S DREAM START
“Well done to Richards Bay. It’s amazing how they played with the previous coach and how they play now. It’s amazing, hey. That’s football for you,” Hunt tells SuperSport TV in a post-match interview.
TS Galaxy triumphed 2-0 over Chippa United at Mbombela Stadium in another DStv Premiership clash.
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