Lorch focuses on poor Pirates finishing after Carling Knockout exit

Orlando Pirates attacking midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch says the team is playing well and it’s finding the back of the net which is setting them back, after being knocked out of the Carling Black Label Knockout.

Pirates were held to a goalless draw by Richards Bay FC in the quarterfinal of the competition, losing match 5-4 on penalties after extra-time at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

Lorch, who was voted the Man-of-the-Match by the fans, just as he was in the first round win over Cape Town Spurs, says what is important for the club is to focus on their next game – a DStv Premiership tie against Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.

“We are very disappointed with the result, I think we did not deserve to lose the game. We had so many chances and we just needed to put the ball inside the net. But it’s football, we need to regroup and focus on the next game on Tuesday which is very important, we need maximum points,” said the attacking midfielder, who picked up a cool R100000 for his efforts.

“It’s not easy (to lose like this), but we need to motivate the young players like Ratomo (Mofokeng) and other to focus on another game. We are doing (playing) well, we just not getting the goals.”

Bittersweet award

Lorch added that being voted the best of the game shows that the supporters appreciate his display, but he would be happier if the team had managed to qualify for the semifinals.

“I would like to thank them (fans) for voting for me. I would be much happier if we were on the next round than being the Man-of-the-Match, but it means a lot for the fans to have voted for me. They must keep on supporting us.”

The loss to Richards Bay saw the Buccaneers go four games without a win in all competitions.

Pirates last won a match when they met Cape Spurs in the first round of the Carling Knockout – they then went on to play to draws against AmaZulu FC and Polokwane City FC, before losing to Spurs in a league tie prior to their fixture with the Natal Rich Boys.