Vusi Vilakazi has stepped into the driver’s seat at Richards Bay FC after a turbulent first half of the season saw the exit of coach Kaitano Tembo.
Tembo, appointed coach at the start of the season, managed only four wins in 18 league games. They suffered ten defeats and four draws. This placed Richards Bay in a precarious 15th position on the DStv Premiership table, just six points clear of last-placed Cape Town Spurs.
The club’s statement acknowledged Tembo’s contribution but cited the need for a change in direction: “Richards Bay Football Club would like to announce the release of the Head Coach, Mr. Kaitano Tembo, with immediate effect… We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
Tembo’s tenure wasn’t entirely devoid of bright spots. He guided Richards Bay to the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup, where they eventually succumbed to Stellenbosch FC. Nonetheless, the struggles in the league ultimately proved too much to overcome.
VUSI VILAKAZI TAKES OVER AFTER KAITANO TEMBO EXIT
Former Golden Arrows coach Vusi Vilakazi will take over as interim coach, tasked with steadying the ship and navigating the club through this delicate period. As Richards Bay enters the second half of the season, achieving consistent results and avoiding relegation will be paramount to their success.
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Vilakazi, popularly known as ‘Kanu’, recently joined the Natal Rich Boys after leaving Chippa United. He had joined Chippa after cutting ties with Golden Arrows.
In the Eastern Cape, Vilakazi barely spent two months with indications he wanted to return to KZN. His immediate task at Richards Bay would be to steer them away from the relegation zone.
Under Tembo, Richards Bay struggled to grind results and will be hoping for a turn of fortunes.