×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Lions need two wins, a few favours

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA: 25 May 1995, Rudolf Straeuli tackles Tim Gavin during the Rugby World Cup match between South Africa and Australia at Newlands stadium in Cape Town, South Africa. Photo by David Rogers / Gallo Images.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA: 25 May 1995, Rudolf Straeuli tackles Tim Gavin during the Rugby World Cup match between South Africa and Australia at Newlands stadium in Cape Town, South Africa. Photo by David Rogers / Gallo Images.
Image: David Rogers / Gallo Images

Kevin de Klerk, Rudolf Straeuli and Johan Ackermann, three generations of Lions players, watched from the touchline yesterday wondering if the latest breed has what it takes to take the franchise where it has never been.

It was a rare sight for a routine training session, but the presence of the union's president and chief executive highlighted the importance of the clash against the Waratahs at Ellis Park in Johannesburg tomorrow.

The Lions have reached the "Death Zone" up Mount Everest in their pursuit of a place in the Super Rugby play-offs for the first time as a standalone franchise. They are within two wins and a few favours of making it to the summit, but here the air is thinnest and oxygen scarce.

Still, with all the pressure, the rewards that lie ahead and a blizzard in the form of the defending Super Rugby champions that lie in wait, Lions captain Warren Whiteley was reluctant to reveal the team's full ambitions.

"We haven't really spoken about [play-off qualification] in the dressing room," said the leader of the new generation.

"More important than our log position is that this will probably be our last home game in Super Rugby this year. The support we've got this year has been phenomenal and not just for local derbies. We want to put a performance together that they are going to be proud of. Winning at home is almost non-negotiable."

The Lions are seventh on the overall log as they approach the penultimate game of this competition. Defeat will mean they can start planning for a winter holiday, but a win will keep them alive by the skin of their teeth.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.