The Lions will have revenge on their minds when they run out in Kimberley on Sunday for a Currie Cup semi-final against defending champions Griquas.
The two sides meet in a repeat of last year’s final, when Griquas snatched the title at the death after flyhalf George Whitehead kicked a penalty goal to stun the Ellis Park crowd.
The Lions arrive as underdogs, according to coach Mziwakhe Nkosi, with Griquas enjoying home advantage after finishing the league phase at the top of the table.
“We know a big challenge awaits us,” Nkosi told Netwerk24.
“Griquas have shown throughout the season that they are the team to beat and finished well clear at the top of the log. What makes it even more difficult is the fact that we are playing away from home.
“Winning a knockout match in Kimberley is not impossible, but we will have to roll up our sleeves.”
CURRIE CUP: Will it be Frans’ cats versus champs?
The Lions have already experienced the challenge of playing Griquas in Kimberley this season, losing when the hosts were celebrating their 140th anniversary and reunion weekend.
Nkosi believes his side is better prepared this time, having improved its finishing and developed greater cohesion.
“They boast a team with plenty of experience. We also let ourselves down with our finishing when we entered their 22. Since then, our finishing has improved a lot,” he said.
“I think we also have more synergy now than when we last played them. We have good momentum and we’ve also learned quite a few lessons along the way. Hopefully, we can put in a better performance on Sunday and get a victory.”
Sunday’s semi-final in Kimberley kicks off at 1pm, and is followed by the clash between the Cheetahs and Pumas in Bloemfontein (3:30pm).
Photo: Griquas/Facebook
The post Lions seek redemption appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Lions will have revenge on their minds when they run out in Kimberley on Sunday for a Currie Cup semi-final against defending champions Griquas.
The post Lions seek redemption appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
