Richards Bay head coach Ronnie Gabriel has criticised Orlando Pirates for what he described as “delaying tactics” during their tense 1–0 defeat in the Carling Knockout semi-final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, Gabriel expressed disappointment at the result, insisting his side had Pirates “in a tight corner” for much of the second half.

“Had we taken our chances, we could have come out victorious,” Gabriel said. “It was a gallant display by the boys today. They showed they can compete with anyone.”

Gabriel was particularly frustrated by Pirates’ game management tactics, including time-wasting and delaying restarts.

“When last did you see Pirates time-wasting, delaying tactics, and their goalkeeper getting a yellow card for slowing the game down? It shows they were under serious pressure for most of the second half,” he added. “It was a commendable effort from the group, just that we couldn’t convert the chances. We’ll have to take this form into the league.”

Match Recap: Pirates Edge Past Spirited Richards Bay

The match was decided by a 42nd-minute strike from Tshepang Moremi, who latched onto a pinpoint diagonal ball from Oswin Appollis before firing past Ian Otieno. It was Moremi’s third goal in five games and his sixth of the season, underlining his growing influence in cup competitions.

Pirates dominated the first half, with Sipho Mbule and Yanela Mbuthuma both testing Otieno early on. Mbokazi also came close with a header from a corner, while Mbuthuma was denied by the goalkeeper after a clever through ball from Mbule.

Richards Bay responded after the break, with Lundi Mahala narrowly missing the target from a tight angle just minutes into the second half. Despite their pressure, they couldn’t find a way past Pirates’ disciplined backline, led by Nkosinathi Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki.

Pirates made tactical substitutions to manage the game, including bringing on Deon Hotto and Sinoxolo Kwayiba to shore up their midfield and defense. The final minutes were tense, with Richards Bay pushing for an equaliser and Pirates doing just enough to hold on.

What’s Next for Richards Bay

Richards Bay, currently 11th in the Betway Premiership with 13 points from 12 matches, will look to bounce back when they face Durban City in their next league fixture. Gabriel hopes the fighting spirit shown in the semi-final can translate into league success.