sportskeeda
Vusi Vilakazi, co-coach of AmaZulu, has recognized that their preparation for the upcoming match against Richards Bay has been affected by the sudden dismissal of their head coach, Brandon Truter, merely two days ahead of the game.
Truter was released by Bay on Thursday following a loss to Kaizer Chiefs earlier in the week, marking the club’s fourth straight defeat in the league and positioning them at the bottom of the Betway Premiership standings.
The former Moroka Swallows coach took over during the off-season, stepping in to replace Vilakazi, who resigned after guiding the Natal Rich Boys to safety by avoiding relegation through the playoffs.
Truter’s time at the helm was challenging, with the team managing to score just two goals while conceding seven in their initial eight matches.
Following their loss to AmaZulu 3-1 on Saturday, Richards Bay has now conceded 10 goals while scoring only three.
“Our preparations had to be adjusted since the coach’s departure altered our plans, which were in line with Truter’s strategies,” Vilakazi stated.
“We adjusted over the past couple of days in expectation of a different game strategy.
“Instead of utilizing five defenders, it seemed they might have chosen to go with four, which was indeed the case.
“We were fortunate to identify that. In terms of play style and ball possession, we were aware that we had the upper hand and could dominate the game for considerable stretches.
“We needed to execute decisive actions to create scoring opportunities. In the first half, we began strongly, controlling play and manufacturing significant chances, yet we only secured a 1-0 advantage at halftime.
“At the start of the second half, our aim was to win that period, which we achieved, finishing that half 3-1 and overall 3-1.”
This win marked AmaZulu’s second consecutive victory, following their earlier triumph against Chippa United in November, propelling them to 13th place in the league standings.
Vilakazi expressed his optimism regarding the team’s progress, stating, “Looking ahead, I believe the players’ confidence is on the rise,” Vilakazi remarked.
“The team chemistry is improving, and the effort is clear. However, this isn’t the finished product of AmaZulu yet. We’re still evolving and will work hard to enhance our performance next time.”
AmaZulu was originally scheduled to meet Mamelodi Sundowns at King Zwelithini Stadium on Tuesday in a Betway Premiership clash, but that match has been postponed to a later date.
This postponement is due to Sundowns’ participation in the CAF Champions League group stages, as they prepare to journey to Morocco to face FAR Rabat on Saturday, the former team of Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi.
