Richards Bay Coach Accuses Orlando Pirates of 'Dark' Tactics in Cup Semi-Final

Ronnie Gabriel has slammed Orlando Pirates' tactics, claiming the Soweto giants resorted to unsportsmanlike play to secure a narrow semi-final win. Orlando Pirates have been accused of resorting to unsportsmanlike conduct to secure their place in the Carling Knockout final after a contentious semi-final clash. The Buccaneers are one step closer to their second trophy in five months, having ground out a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a determined Richards Bay side this past weekend. The winners book their spot in the Carling Knockout Cup final. The decisive moment in a tense encounter at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium came from a first-half goal by Tshepang Moremi. However, that single strike was just the opening act in a gruelling battle of wills that saw Pirates tested to their limits. Following the match, Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel claimed his team's relentless pressure forced the Soweto giants to abandon their typical playing style in favour of what he termed 'dark' survival tactics. "When was the last time you saw Orlando Pirates time-wasting, using delaying tactics, and their goalkeeper getting a yellow card for stalling?" Ronnie Gabriel questioned post-match, as quoted by Foot Africa. Ronnie Gabriel argued these actions were not characteristic of a team in control but rather one feeling the heat. Ronnie Gabriel asserted that his squad had the Buccaneers on the ropes for most of the second half, forcing them into a defensive shell and resorting to time-wasting. He described it as pushing them into a "dark hole." Despite the disappointing result, Ronnie Gabriel praised his players for a "commendable effort" and hopes to carry that momentum into their league fixtures. For Orlando Pirates, the victory was a display of grit and resilience. It was a testament to their ability to win ugly and secure a result even when not at their free-flowing best, taking them one step closer to another piece of silverware.