Former Bafana Bafana stars Shaun Bartlett and Bongani Khumalo has hailed the dazzling display of Thembinkosi Lorch against Manchester City.
Wydad Athletic Club lost 2-0 to Manchester City after goals by Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku, but it was Lorch’s performances that was on everyone’s lips in South Africa.
He almost caught Ederson out with a long-range effort from his own half and set up Cassius Mailula for Wydad’s best chance after flooring new City signing Tijjani Reijnders.
After the match, Bartlett and Khumalo were waxing lyrical over Lorch’s display at the world stage.
“He had quite a productive day on the field. I was quite disappointed when they took him off, obviously managing him as a player,” Bartlett said on SuperSport TV.
“But I think overall he tried his best. He was all over the pitch, being influential, taking shots from long range and even setting up Cassius [Mailula] in the first half.
“I think it was just that final product that never came for Wydad.
Khumalo echoed the sentiment, saying it was the right call to save Lorch’s legs for the matches against Juventus and Al Ain.
“Wonderful start from him. He’s truly is an important player for Wydad. If he stays fit, I think his coach was saving his legs for the next fixture for him to go for it,” he added.
“City were in the lead, the game sort of died out so save his legs, keep his energy alive it’s tournament football, three games games go by very quickly, it’s a game every three days.
“It’s important to remain fresh.”
Did you know that the iDiski Times Digital Newspaper is completely free! Download it now by clicking the button below or fill in the form to have it sent to you every week.
