Richards Bay FC defender Lwandile Mabuya is riding high on emotion and ambition after marking a significant career milestone at the club.
The 25-year-old Natal Rich Boys stalwart brought up his century mark in the recent 0-0 KZN Derby stalemate against Durban City FC.
In an interview with FARPost, Mabuya reflected on his five-year journey with the club while boldly outlining his aspiration for a move to one of South Africa’s ‘big three’ giants—Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, or Mamelodi Sundowns—or even a transfer overseas.
A DREAM REALISED AT RICHARDS BAY FC
Mabuya’s professional career has been with Richards Bay since his 2020/21 season transfer from the Gauteng Development Promotional League’s 2021 champions, Remember Elite Sports Academy [RESA].
Describing the century milestone as a childhood dream come true, the defender shared the motivation he drew from observing senior players. “To me, it was a dream come true,” Mabuya told FARPost. “Having to see some senior players achieving such made me much hungrier for games so that one day I could be like them.”
His first two seasons were spent competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship before he played a crucial role in helping Richards Bay secure promotion to the Betway Premiership for the 2022/23 season—a moment he singles out as the pinnacle of his career so far.
“Having to win promotion to the Betway Premiership with the team was one of my most memorable moments,” he reminisced.
RISE TO PROMINENCE UNDER TEMBO
Mabuya’s initial foray into the top-flight was marked by limited opportunities, featuring in only eight matches, mostly as a substitute in his first two seasons in the Premiership. However, the arrival of coach Kaitano Tembo catalysed a significant shift.
The defender stepped up, asserting himself as a strong contender for the right-back position. The following 2023/24 season saw a marked improvement, with Mabuya registering 27 appearances, cementing his status as one of the club’s pivotal assets.
Reflecting on his adaptation to the Premier Division’s demands, Mabuya acknowledged the need for hard work and refinement. “I think I have seen so much improvement because in my earlier days for the team, I used to lack in many aspects of the game, but as time went by, I had to work very hard on those aspects,” he added.
He credited teammates Tshepo Mabua and Simphiwe Mcineka as the most influential figures who have guided him since his earlier days at the club.
BOLD FUTURE AMBITIONS BY MABUYA
Having established himself at Richards Bay and reached the 100-game mark, Mabuya is now looking far beyond. The right-back concluded his remarks by revealing his soaring ambitions.
“Achieving with the team and seeing myself playing abroad or for one of the big three teams in South Africa would be my biggest career goals,” he declared. “Also, I am aiming for 400 caps in the PSL.”
RELATED STORY: Kaizer Chiefs end Mabuya pursuit after sealing Monyane deal