Orlando Pirates depth prevails with Thembinkosi Lorch season debut

Despite a lengthy, the fan favourite delivered a man-of-the-match performance in his season debut, propelling the Buccaneers to the Carling Knockout quarterfinals. Lorch was supposed to be eased back into action, but Riviero explained that circumstances forced his hand. 

"Obviously after a long period out of the field, he was one of the candidates to be a sub, but with the accident in the first half with Sipho [Chaine] we were running short of spots to make subs," said Riveiro.

"We did the first two subs and suddenly, [Evidence] Makgopa told us that he was cramping, so we had to choose, even though we had [pre-decided] candidates to be subbed," the coach said.

Thanks to Pirates’ depth, Riveiro had no issues as injury to first-choice goalkeeper Sipho Chaine allowed Melusi Buthelezi his Bucs debut. 

"This squad is full of quality and possibilities and opportunities for us as coaches to choose the right ones. it's difficult to build the starting 11 because they are all good players. I know everyone has their favourite, but I can only play 11 out of 35. Today we had the opportunity to integrate players that didn't have minutes early in the season for different reasons. 

"That's the good news. It's not good news that Sipho gets injured, but it's good news to see Melusi on the field. And see that he can do a good job as well. The important thing is the amount of players that are fit and ready to compete."

Lorch was not the only player given much-needed game time. Former Baroka FC striker Evidence Makgopa made his first start under Riiveiro and was also a man-of-the-match contender after winning a penalty and providing an assist.

With Bafana striker Zakhele Lepasa out injured, this might be a lifeline for him, and the Spanish-born coach is backing the 23-year-old to seize the opportunity.