Lions happy to employ 'boring' Challenge Cup tactics
REACTION: Sometimes taking the more conservative approach does have its benefits.
And that was certainly evident during the Lions’ 28-12 win over Perpignan in the Challenge Cup opener on Sunday.
The Joburg side refrained from their usual attacking brand of rugby and employed a more structured game.
They managed to score one try courtesy of wing Rabz Maxwane, while Jordan Hendrikse kicked 23 points for the win.
Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen admitted the performance was a bit boring in terms of his team’s standards.
However, he stated it was effective.
“From our side, we kept it quite simple,” Lions coach Van Rooyen said.
“We almost played [the game] like Test match rugby, a little bit boring but that’s how we got the reward.”
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The Lions, who made the quarterfinals last season, relied on a fairly young side for the opener.
Locks Etienne Oosthuizen and Raynard Roets, wing Boldwin Hansen and new signing Erich Cronje all made their European debuts.
Commenting on his first start away from home, centre Cronje said: “It was special.
“Throughout the week we said it was going to be a tough physical game and that is what happened.
“But we said we going to keep the scoreboard ticking, stay patient, put the ball behind them and put them under pressure.
“It was very special for some of the boys and I’m excited for what’s coming.”
The Lions host Newcastle Falcons at Ellis Park next Saturday.
