Durban vs Richards Bay: provincial bragging rights set scene for CKO quarter-final

RICHARDS Bay FC host Durban City FC in what promises to be a compelling KwaZulu-Natal showdown at the quarterfinal stage of the Carling Knockout Cup on Saturday.

- JEHRAN NAIDOO

Both clubs arrive with momentum but contrasting narratives that make this fixture far more than just another cup game.

Richards Bay had an unpromising start to their season but appear to have found their stride in this competition. After failing to secure positive results in their opening three league matches, the club stuck with a youth-driven setup and have since built confidence and cohesion.

In the round of 16 they convincingly defeated Chippa United 4-1, a result that was hailed as some proof their philosophy is paying off. That emphatic performance gives them momentum, and the belief that their squad of younger players can deliver in knockout conditions.