By Michael Madyira
Thembinkosi Lorch scored twice to inspire Mamelodi Sundowns to a 2-0 victory over Maritzburg United on Sunday, sending them through to the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals.
The round of 16 tie at Lucas Moripe Stadium saw Lorch getting the breakthrough on 74 minutes before completing his double in stoppage time.
After managing to restrict Sundowns in the first half, Maritzburg finally capitulated to throw away an impressive defensive effort and allow their hosts to head to the last eight.
It was an evening which saw play being suspended in the 15th minute before resuming after an hour due to inclement weather.
Masandawana had Denis Onyango and Lebohang Maboe back to start while right-back Khuliso Mudau also returned to the lineup.
Coach Rhulani Mokwena decided to rest the likes of captain Themba Zwane, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, Grant Kekana and Mothobi Mvala.
Their visitors had in their line-up experienced faces like Namibia international Joslin Kamatuka, Reagan van der Ross and forward Nkanyiso Madonsela.
Maritzburg started the match well, managing to frustrate the Brazilians with some solid defending which gave the hosts few chances at goal.
That led to a goalless first half, but Sundowns upped their tempo in the second period and had Lorch shooting just wide on 66 minutes.
Maboe then came close and agonisingly watched the woodwork denying his effort in the 72nd minute.
The period of sustained pressure finally paid off when Masandawana managed to break the stubborn Maritzburg defence with Lorch firing into the roof of the net off a Bongani Zungu through pass.
An unmarked Lotch then put the contest to bed by comfortably striking a loose ball from a missed shot by 17-year-old Sundowns debutant Kutlwano Letlhaku.
Meanwhile, earlier on in the day, TS Galaxy had an easy afternoon by cruising into the quarter-finals following a 3-0 victory over D’General at Free State Stadium.
Samir Nurkovic struck first on 33 minutes before Sphiwe Mahlangu doubled their advantage three minutes before halftime.
Mlungisi Zwane then grabbed the Rockets’ third goal five minutes into the second half.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Thembinkosi Lorch
Image source: Nedbank Sport
