Update on Orlando Pirates fan favourite Thembinkosi Lorch’s situation

It has been a troubled last couple of seasons for Orlando Pirates talisman Thembinkosi Lorch and unfortunately, it is about to get worse!

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Lorch has seen a mixture of off field issues and injuries derail the promising journey he started at Pirates and one that quickly turned him into a fan favourite.

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Lorch was part of the Pirates side that has recently returned from a successful pre-season outing to Spain. The Buccaneers returned with an unbeaten record of two wins and draw from their travels. That, will undoubtedly have left the club morale on a high, but ‘Nyoso’ his could be set for a huge drop on Friday.

PIRATES STAR LORCH FACES SENTENCING ON FRIDAY

That is because Lorch is set to hear his fate on Friday 28 July, after he was found guilty of assaulting a woman named Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala, who is believed to have been his girlfriend at the time. the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Lorch was arrested on 7 September 2020, following an incident that happened at his place of residence in Midrand, on 6 September 2020.

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On the 6th of June this year, the Randburg Magistrate Court found Lorch guilty of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. While the player finds out what his punishment will be at the sentencing, Pirates are not going to be slowing down with regards to the finishing touches of their pre-season campaign, however.

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In fact, just a week on Saturday, Pirates are set to open their 2023/24 DStv Premiership campaign with a crunch encounter against Stellenbosch FC at the tricky Danie Craven venue. Having been a bit part player in the last couple of years, Lorch will definitely be hoping he can have an injury free season to demonstrate his undoubted football abilities. Should he do so successfully, the incentive of forcing himself back into the Bafana Bafana squad in time for the AFCON should serve as motivation.