The Lions are relieved to have gotten their URC campaign off to a winning start, but they know that they can improve.
Lions scrumhalf Nico Steyn tries to break through the Leinster defence during their URC match at Ellis Park on Saturday. Picture: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
After a hard fought 27-26 win over defending champions Leinster in their United Rugby Championship (URC) opener at Ellis Park on Saturday, Lions captain Francke Horn said his team have plenty of room for improvement as they look ahead to their next clash against Ospreys.
With their first two games at home, the Lions needed to take advantage and get a couple of good early wins, but they almost blew that chance against a weakened Leinster team that travelled to South Africa with a large number of youngsters for their two-match tour.
Despite being favourites for the match, the Lions largely struggled and made numerous errors, but in the end a much better defensive effort in the second half helped them secure a very tight win as they recovered from a halftime deficit.
Relieved captain
Speaking after the match, Horn admitted to being very relieved, after admitting that soft moments on defence in the first half and not taking their opportunities almost cost them.
“I am a bit relieved to be honest. We weren’t at our best today, but credit to Leinster, they put us under a lot of pressure,” said Horn.
“It was a very tight second half but the boys dug deep and we got the win at the end. We got our four points and now on to next week. We want to be better for the supporters.
“In the first half there were very soft moments (on defence), with them scoring some first phase tries. But we also scored some first phase tries. In the second half we were just inaccurate. We had more possession, but unfortunately didn’t capitalise in their 22m.
“Luckily it’s the start of the season. We did do some really good stuff, but there is also some stuff to work on for the next game.”
Cronje stars
A big part of the Lions win was down to the effort of wing Erich Cronje, who put in a superb player-of-the-match showing, as he ran in two tries, defended brilliantly, produced a try assist and was even a menace at the breakdown throughout the match. But he refused to take the plaudits, crediting the team.
“It’s always a tough game against Leinster. We usually have to be at our best, but luckily we got it through and we will take the win. All credit to the team, we are all fighting for each other and that’s how we win competitions,” said Cronje.
The Lions enjoyed a breakout campaign in the URC last season, making the competition knockouts for the first time, and if they want to repeat that feat this season they will have to win their home games.
Next up is a clash against Welsh side Ospreys, who have beaten them at Ellis Park a couple of times before, but the Lions will again be favourites and as long as they put in a decent performance, they should walk away with a win over a team that will be smarting from their 41-24 loss to the Sharks.
