Richards Bay FC head coach Brandon Truter has sized up the mammoth task awaiting his side as they plot a way past Orlando Pirates at the weekend.
The two teams will collide at the King Zwelithini Stadium in uMlazi on Sunday (3pm kick-off), having fully recovered from their midweek exertions.
The Natal Rich Boyz were frustrated by a resolute Royal AM on Tuesday night as they had to share the spoils in a goalless draw at the Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg.
That result saw Truter and his men collect a win, loss and a draw in their first three fixtures of the 2024/2025 Premiership season following a win against TS Galaxy and defeat to Chippa United.
Next on their agenda is a ‘little’ matter of getting back-to-back wins over the Buccaneers.
The last time these two teams met in May of last season, desperate for points, Richards Bay snatched all three at the Orlando Stadium via a Sanele Barns strike.
A lot has changed since that meeting, with a new man at the helm of the Natal Rich Boyz, as well as a host of new signings.
Speaking after their stalemate against Thwihli Thwahla on Tuesday, Truter revealed that targeting a full haul of points would be quite the reach, considering Pirates’ form.
The 46-year-old mentor has been frequently criticised for his staunch belief in his backs-to-the-wall style of play.
He has often been lambasted for his attempts to ensure he doesn’t lose games rather than going all-out for victory at times, an approach he openly stated he isn’t going to stop.
Truter has revealed that he expects his team to play on the back foot against Pirates, with the hope of possibly stealing a winner.
“It’s all about what you’re willing to give or sacrifice in order for you to get something from a Pirates that are very offensive-minded, with good quality – a well-coached team with good quality as well,” he said
“At this point I don’t think there’s any team that plans for three points against Pirates. The way they’re playing and flying at this moment, if anyone goes for three points against Pirates ...”
“It’s either via a set piece or counter-attack, and that’s sitting back and stopping them from scoring in order for us to get something – and that’s a challenge on its own, whether home or away, because Pirates supporters will also outnumber you.
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“At the same time, we are always offensive-minded, but when the opponent puts on the pressure, then you have to react.”
Richards Bay will be expected to target a return to the score-sheet after drawing blanks in their last two matches.
Their only goal in three league matches has been from centre-back Keegan Allen.
Truter will hope his attackers, such as Yamela Mbuthuma, who started against Royal AM, can find their rhythm when title challengers Pirates come to town.