Lorch going to be key in the second round - Xoki

Lorch who had been out of action for six months due to injury, made his return over the weekend and scored a goal during the 2-0 win over Motsepe Foundation Championships side All Stars in the Nedbank Cup last 32. Xoki says Lorch’s quality is going to benefit the team greatly.

"As I said before the sub for us changed the game tonight. They came in and made a huge difference for us. He's a star player, he scored a goal on his return, which is great for us and I'm sure it's going to be good for his confidence going forward. So, we will need him on the remaining games to be at his best so we will do our best to support him and make sure that he delivers for us," he said.

Xoki’s leadership qualities have never been in doubt, with the absence of the injured skipper Innocent Maela, the Khayelitsha-born defender spotted the armband. Having captained AmaZulu for years, this was not a new terrain for him but he says wearing the Pirates armband is special.

"It's a privilledge and honour for me to wear the armband of the club. It's a big club and I have never in my wildest dreams thought I will be wearing an Orlando Pirates armband. It's a team effort, Inno has been a great leader for us, whenever he's not available we try to fill in the role. We have many leaders in the team, which makes things easier for anyone that leads," he concluded.