The Lions in action against Benetton during the United Rugby Championships. (Photo: Twitter/ Lions)
On Saturday afternoon in Treviso, the Lions were 13-28 against Benetton with their backs against the wall and, with only about 20 minutes of playing time left, in a difficult position.
But there was no question of giving up.
The players grabbed the bar, suddenly caught fire and scored three tries within a few minutes to achieve a bonus point victory of 32-28 over Benetton.
Where the Lions appeared a bit leaden for 60 minutes, suddenly there was new energy.
Then it was Benetton’s turn to suck the rear teat.
And to think that only a few weeks ago the storm clouds gathered dark and menacing around the Lions and Ellis Park.
Allegations of major player unhappiness circulated and the team had almost no chance of making it to the play-offs of the United Rugby Championship.
The Lions, who still have two home games against Leinster and Zebre, can therefore still make the play-offs, something that seemed impossible.
Please also remember that Leinster have already qualified for the play-offs and, just like last season, may send their academy players on tour to South Africa.
Moreover, Zebre is the dairy cow of the series and still unsealed. They do have 10 points, but it’s all bonus points.
So if the Lions can build on Saturday’s victory, their dreams can come true.
Hats off to the Lions’ Emmanuel Tshituka (two tries), Francke Horn, Ruan Venter, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, PJ Botha and the battle horse Willem Alberts.
They lit the spark and it allowed Sanele Nohamba, Marius Louw, Edwill van der Merwe, Rabz Maxwane and Quan Horn to thrive at the back.
Marks:
Benetton 28 (21): Tries: Joaquin Riera, Marcus Watson, Siua Maile, Henry Time-Stowers. Goals: Jacob Morning (4).
Lions 32 (10): Tries: Quan Horn, Emmanuel Tshituka (2), Sibahle Maxwane. Goals: Sanele Nohamba (3). Penalty goals: And walk (2).
