Pirates coach explains Erasmus, Lorch absence and gives update on Makgopa

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has explained Kermit Erasmus’ absence in the Richards Bay league game on Saturday evening in Soweto while also giving an update on Thembinkosi Lorch and Evidence Makgopa.

Erasmus re-joined Pirates on PSL deadline day in September along with Ndabayithethwa Phillip Ndlondlo.

The striker has already played two games for his new club but missed the goalless draw against Richards Bay at Orlando Stadium, and Riveiro has explained why Erasmus was sitting in the stands for the DStv Premiership game.

BUCS COACH EXPLAINS

“Erasmus had a very small problem [slight knock] in the Sekhukhune game in Polokwane, so he was not available for the Richards game,” Riveiro told the media.

Another big player that has been missing in action is Lorch. The Pirates attacker was nowhere to be found in the last five DStv Premiership matches.

And when his coach Riveiro, explained Lorch’s absence, he was extremely short on detail.

However, it is understood that Lorch picked a minor injury in training following his return to the pitch in the SuperSport United clash in August.

“He hasn’t been available for the last one and a half months, if I’m not mistaken, as he last played in the SuperSport United game,” explained Riveiro.

“I hope he is going to make it soon [be available for selection. We spoke about what happened in that game [SuperSport] already.”

Meanwhile, Makgopa’s debut had been delayed by an ankle injury, but the striker is close to returning to fitness and featuring for the Soweto giants.

“Evidence is now training with the group since about one week ago, so is he close to returning, he is getting the rhythm and training with the team,” concluded Riveiro.

Riveiro’s troops have failed to score a goal in their last three matches in all competitions and will be looking to get back to winning when they host AmaZulu in a league game on Friday (14 October).