Richards Bay co-coach Papi Zothwane has urged his players to stay positive ahead of another KwaZulu-Natal derby, insisting that last weekend’s defeat to AmaZulu will have no bearing on their next performance.
Richards Bay suffered a 2-1 loss to AmaZulu in a KZN Derby clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the league this past weekend.
They now face another tough provincial encounter against sixth-placed Durban City FC at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday (17:30), where the home side remains unbeaten this season.
Zothwane acknowledged Durban City’s impressive campaign, which has seen them reach the Nedbank Cup semi-finals under caretaker coach Simo Dladla, despite suffering their first defeat last weekend against Kaizer Chiefs.
With the reverse league fixture ending in a goalless draw at Umhlathuze Sports Complex in November, another closely contested match is expected.
“We are preparing well for a big game against Durban City on Sunday,” said Zothwane.
“It’s a KZN derby, and these matches are always difficult. Your previous result does not determine the outcome—it comes down to who wants it more.
“Our players are motivated despite the disappointment against AmaZulu, where we conceded late and lost the game. We have learned from our mistakes and are working to correct them ahead of this match.
“Durban City are in good form and have reached the Nedbank Cup semi-finals, so we respect them. But we want to bounce back and perform well. I’m confident the players will give their best to ensure we come out on the winning side.”
This will be the third meeting between the two sides this season. After drawing in the league, the Natal Rich Boyz secured a 3-1 victory over Durban City in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals after extra time in October.
