The Lions are alive in Europe, but coach Ivan van Rooyen knows the real examination begins now on a challenging tour.
Fresh off their 42-33 EPCR Challenge Cup win over Lyon at Ellis Park, the Joburg-based side heads north for a demanding two-match tour that will test both squad depth and adaptability.
First up is a decisive clash against Perpignan in France. The Lions are fourth in Pool 3 with six points from one win and two defeats, the same record as Perpignan who are third due to a slightly better points difference.
They then face the Ospreys in Wales as the Vodacom URC resumes.
“We are really excited about the tour,” Van Rooyen said on Tuesday. “It’s really cold in Europe. Even though Perpignan is in the south, the maximum temperature is 10 degrees. In Cardiff it’s around four, and at stages the real-feel temperature is minus two or three. We are getting ready for that. It might influence the way we play and how we approach the match.
“Coming off the weekend win, in the review we still felt we were sloppy at times, turning the ball over too much. To get a win that kept us alive in the competition was still a highlight.
“We have an opportunity this weekend to stay in the competition. A result against Perpignan is a great opportunity. We don’t want to leave it to other teams and points difference. We want to get into the round of 16.”
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The Lions’ touring squad incudes Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye, who missed the match against Lyon due to a hamstring niggle.
“It’s nice to get some of the senior guys back,” Van Rooyen said. “We’ll confirm [who’s available] on Friday with some final checks, and we might rotate a little bit this week to get everyone ready for the Ospreys.
“We are preparing for a massive and physical Perpignan side that thrives on momentum. And then another physically tough Ospreys side who are wanting to prove a point with their ups and downs in Wales and an uncertain future.
“I know their coach [Mark Jones] really well and they are going to be up for a massive performance. We are excited but it’s also an opportunity for us to get closer and keep on growing as a group.”
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Photo: Mike Driver/INPHO
