‘No drama,’ Jose Riveiro on Lorch’s absence from Pirates’ XI

Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has revealed why Thembinkosi Lorch was nowhere to be seen in their DStv Premiership match against Cape Town City on Saturday afternoon at the Orlando Stadium.

The starting line-up of Pirates prompted questions on why the attacking midfielder, Lorch was missing taking into account his recent form.

The Spaniard mentor, Riveiro, confirmed that Lorch missed the CT City game because he was injured. However, he highlighted that there is nothing to worry about over the injury as it is ‘minor’.

Riveiro also stated that they are optimistic that Lorch will be available for the club’s last four league matches, including the Nedbank Cup semi-final clash against their Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs on 6 May.

RIVEIRO ON WHY LORCH WAS MISSING AGAINST CT CITY

“No drama but Lorch is an important player, it goes without saying but you see today the group took responsibility and performed well,” said Riveiro.

“We are hoping to see him back as soon as possible.

“It is a minor thing but it happened too close to the games so we didn’t have the magain to solve it.”

Riveiro also expressed his delight at the recent displays by Lorch who returned from a long-term injury in February.

The 29-year-old, Pirates talisman wasted no time in getting back his form as he scored on his return in their Nedbank Cup last 32 match against All Stars.

He has netted three goals in eight appearances in all competitions this season

“I’m happy with him because he is finding joy in the games and during the week and we all get the benefit of that,” added Riveiro.

Lorch’s absence against the Citizens did not make much of a difference as Pirates managed to score 2 goals to come out victorious.

But he has been instrumental in making the Pirates’ attack tick, and with the Soweto giants pushing for the CAF Champions League spot and chasing Nedbank Cup glory, Riveiro will want all his best players available at his disposal

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