The Lions secured a 35-19 bonus-point victory over the Ospreys at Ellis Park on Saturday, following their dramatic 27-26 win over defending champions Leinster in the opening round of the United Rugby Championship. Coach Ivan van Rooyen expressed satisfaction with the win but emphasized that his team must elevate their performance for the upcoming derby against the Bulls. The Lions trailed 12-10 at half-time but responded strongly in the second half, scoring five tries.
Captain Francke Horn highlighted the team's determination to adapt their strategy at half-time, with the forwards taking control and securing a convincing win. The pack effectively decided to roll up their sleeves and take the game to the Ospreys, resulting in several crucial maul tries. This tactical shift allowed the Lions to dominate the second half and secure a bonus-point victory.
Van Rooyen was particularly pleased with his players' ability to adapt after an untidy opening 40 minutes. He acknowledged that the Ospreys are a tough and resilient team that can capitalize on inaccuracies. The Lions' coach emphasized the importance of accuracy and finding ways to exploit their opponents' weaknesses. The team's improved second-half performance was a testament to their ability to adjust and respond to challenges.
The Lions will draw confidence from last season's 43-33 victory over the Bulls in Pretoria, but Van Rooyen expects a substantially different challenge this time. He noted that the Bulls have made significant improvements, with speed and skill out wide, as well as a strong pack of forwards. The Lions' coach emphasized that his team must be prepared for a physically demanding and intense match.
The Lions could have two returning Springboks available from the start, with scrumhalf Morné van den Berg and utility back Quan Horn both making second-half appearances against the Ospreys. Van Rooyen indicated that it would be no surprise to see both players in the starting XV against the Bulls. Their potential inclusion would create healthy selection headaches, particularly after Boeta Chamberlain and Nico Steyn impressed during the Lions' opening two matches.
Van Rooyen praised Boeta Chamberlain and Nico Steyn for their exceptional performances in the Lions' opening two matches. He noted that Chamberlain has been a breath of fresh air, while Steyn is playing the rugby of his life. The coach emphasized the importance of healthy competition within the team, which will ultimately benefit the Lions in their upcoming matches.
With nine points from their opening two matches, the Lions have made an ideal start to their campaign. However, Van Rooyen knows that the next test will provide a more accurate assessment of his team's standing. He emphasized the importance of accuracy, set-piece, and physicality in the upcoming derby against the Bulls, which will be a significant challenge for his team.
Key points
- The Lions must improve their accuracy and physicality to compete against the Bulls in the upcoming Jukskei derby.
- Coach Ivan van Rooyen is pleased with his team's adaptability but emphasizes that their performance must be significantly better against the Bulls.
- The potential return of Springboks Morné van den Berg and Quan Horn could create healthy selection headaches for Van Rooyen.
