Orlando Pirates showed some excellent pre-season form when they beat Kaizer Chiefs 2-0 in the Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday. JOHN GOLIATH looks at some of the talking points from the clash.

More than just a gimmick …

The Charity Spectacular was a favourite of a lot of South African football fans and many people were upset after the ‘Beer Cup’ replaced it. However, it has become a great pre-season outing for the country’s two most popular teams and their fans. It definitely helps to create a buzz around the forthcoming season.

Thembinkosi Lorch can become a top, top player …

There is definitely a buzz around Thembinkosi Lorch going into the new campaign. The Pirates striker scored a wonderful goal and put his stamp on the encounter with some wonderful touches and runs. Lorch showed that he will be a threat down the middle and on the flanks.

Wayne Sandilands is still one of best in SA …

The veteran shot-stopper made a couple of mistakes last season, but showed on Saturday that he is certainly still one of the best very best goalkeepers in South Africa. Sandilands made a number of top saves against Chiefs, while he also commanded his area and defence really well.

Chiefs need to find goals to compete …

Amakhosi need to find goals from somewhere if they want to challenge the likes of Pirates and Sundowns this coming season. Lazarous Kambole and Leonardo Castro missed a couple of great chances on Saturday. They need to get their act together to try and support Khama Billiat in the final third.