Pirates legend believes Maswanganyi will surpass Lorch

Orlando Pirates legend Lawrence “Killer” Maake believes Patrick Maswanganyi will do better than Thembinkosi Lorch at the Buccaneers.

Lorch left the Soweto Giants earlier this year for Mamelodi Sundowns.

Speaking to KickOff, Maake backed “Tito” to succeed Lorch and become Pirates’ biggest star.

“The Orlando Pirates situation at the moment is up and down with a lot of promise,” he said.

“I’m beginning to see stability, I’m beginning to see players that I can name as regulars and the trusted. I like what I saw from Maswanganyi in the Soweto Derby. He rose to the level I’d like to see becoming sustainable. He makes things happen.

“I think with time, without interference and injuries, the Pirates coach will be able to know who are his trusted players.”

Since joining Pirates from SuperSport United this season, Maswanganyi became an instant fan-favourite, with Lorch losing his status amongst some fans.

The 25-year-old has scored three goals in 19 league appearances for the Sea Robbers this season.

“He is not afraid to hold the ball and do whatever he wants to do, I like the fact that he knows when to make the right decision. Look at the goal he created for Monnapule Saleng. Two touches and it was on,” Maake said.

Pirates legend backs Masangwanyi to outshine Lorch

“Lorch came through and he showed us what he was capable of, and then there were other factors outside the field disturbing him. So Lorch never got to show us his full potential. But I think Maswanganyi given the space and full support from the management and the team around him, he could do better.”

The Pirates legend has backed Maswanganyi to influence more games than Lorch ever did.

“So, Maswanganyi, with freedom and maturity, going forward he is going to be a gem. I foresee him in the national team,” he said.

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