Orlando Pirates may have handed Royal AM a beating, but they will leave Durban with a casualty.
Pirates were again on hand to put four over a Durban-side, after a 4-0 win against Royal AM on Sunday.
Goals came courtesy of Patrick Maswanganyi from the spot, Thalente Mbatha, Kabelo Dlamini and Relebohile Mofokeng. Apart from being prolific in front of goal, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro will also be happy that his side kept a clean sheet. But what unfortunately came with the win was an injury to new signing Thabiso Lebitso.
Lebitso suffered a serious shoulder injury, which Pirates confirmed will keep him out for a long-time to come.
Lebitso out for the season
“The game between Orlando Pirates and Royal AM has brought mixed news. Just as Orlando Pirates celebrated a commanding 4-0 victory over Royal AM in an all-important DStv Premiership on Sunday afternoon, the Buccaneers have suffered a significant setback with the injury to Thabiso Lebitso. The Bucs medical team has revealed to Orlandopiratesfc.com that the 28 year old right back has suffered a broken collarbone, which requires surgical intervention. The prognosis of how long Lebitso will be out for will be known post his procedure.” Wrote the club’s website.
Lebitso only joined Pirates in January, in a surprise free transfer from Chippa United. It took sometime for him to make his debut. But he announced himself in style with a screamer against Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby. He then got suspended straight after that, as he was sitting on three yellow cards from his time at Chippa.
Can he get his Pirates place back next season?
A season ending injury will be a big blow for Lebitso, who was starting to establish himself in the Pirates set up. He will now have to wait until next season to have the opportunity to wear the jersey again. Will this see him fall behind in the pecking order?