Lorch thanks his parents and the Bucs staff

Cape Town - Orlando Pirates forward Thembinkosi Lorch says all his hard work has paid off this season, after claiming two accolades at the PSL's end-of-season awards.

The 25-year-old claimed the Premiership Footballer of the Season and Player's Player of the Season, scoring nine times and providing five assists as Pirates finished the season in second place.

It was clearly an emotional situation for Lorch, who kept his acceptance speech short and sweet.

And, after having time to soak it all in, Lorch spoke to the club's website on Tuesday to discuss his season.

"This has been the best season of my career by far," Lorch told the Orlando Pirates website. "All the hard work that I put in this season has paid off, it's just a pity that as a team we didn't win any silverware.

"I also would like to use this opportunity now to thank some people who I omitted last night in my acceptance speech.

"I was very emotional and almost cried but one day later with everything having sunk in, I would like to once again thank my parents - thank you for everything you have done for me and what you continue to do.

"I owe all that I have to you. I could not have done this without you and for that reason this is much your award as it is mine.

"A big thanks also to the entire Pirates technical team for all they have done for me this season and for always pushing me to do more.

"The pursuit for excellence is what forces us to reflect and also want to better ourselves as players.

"And finally, to my team-mates and all the players that I competed with this year. I would like to extend my gratitude to you all and thank you for voting for me.

"There is no better recognition than that of your own peers and for that I will forever cherish this award.

"Thank you Magents, it has been an exciting season; let's do it all again next season," Lorch concluded.