Orlando Pirates: Thembinkosi Lorch ruled out of Wits clash

Talismanic Orlando Pirates winger is set to miss Saturday’s crucial clash against Bidvest Wits through suspension after picking up a yellow card earlier in the week.

During Monday night’s goalless draw against log-leaders Mamelodi Sundwons, the 25-year-old picked up what was his fourth caution this season, which effects a one-match ban.

This means that he will have to sit out the club’s next fixture away to Wits, who sit in third place on the log, level on points with the Soweto giants, who have slightly superior goal difference.

☠Following his 4th yellow card, received against @sundownsfc, Thembinkosi Lorch will serve his match ban against @bidvestwits
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⚫⚪??#OnceAlways @nyoso_3 pic.twitter.com/56DIcqLGvU

— Orlando Pirates FC (@orlandopirates) April 3, 2019

Lorch out, Memela doubtful

Orlando Pirates could also be without attacking midfielder Luvuyo Memela, who had to be stitched up after suffering a deep cut on his right thigh.

The player had recently returned from a long term injury which saw him miss out of much of th first half of the season.

☠ Memela doubtful for Wits clash
? https://t.co/BRYRUEL9YJ
⚫⚪?⭐#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/iWbE9r0Yz0

— Orlando Pirates FC (@orlandopirates) April 2, 2019

“Luvuyo suffered a deep laceration to the right anterior thigh,” team doctor, Ezekiel Matebula revealed on the Pirates website.

“The laceration was 4cm by 2.5cm deep extending to the fascia and was bleeding profusely.”

“The wound was cleaned and sutured on the inside and the skin closure done with four nylon stitches. Anti-tetanus toxoid vaccine and antibiotics were also given as precaution.”

Dr Ezekiel Matebula

Another key player doubtul for the match is goalkeeper Wayne Sandilands, who had to leave the field after a head-clash with Sundowns defender, Wayne Arendse.

The match between Pirates and Wits kicks off at 15:00 (SAST).