Fleck: We could have taken it

The Cape side were edged 22-29 in a bruising encounter, but they did come away with a valuable losing bonus point.

"There was a lot of intensity, the game was played at a high tempo," said Fleck after the match.

"There was moments for both sides to take control of the game, then the other side fought back – so it was a real clash.

"I guess we can feel pleased that we came away with at least a point, but I certainly felt that there were moments when we could have taken it. 

"Credit to the Lions they were the better side and they deserved that win."

There has been a lot of negative talk about the quality of rugby displayed in South African derbies, however, Fleck believes the two teams put on a spectacle on Saturday. 

"It was a typical South African derby. Both sides brought it in terms of defence and attack. The collisions at the breakdown were immense and it's a good sign for where South African Rugby is going. 

"It's a typical derby match and we do have a go at each other, but I felt there was intent to play some good footy and both sides really tried to do that." he added.

Fleck also had high praise for his young flyhalf Jean-Luc du Plessis, who made only his second start in Super Rugby.

"He [Du Plessis] is growing as a player. He still has a fair bit to go. He has shown some neat touches and I felt that he controlled the game at stages quite well.

"We struggle to exit, which was a problem for us. The Lions kept us in our own half for quite some time so I guess that boils down to our No.9s and No.10s making good decisions. But he [Du Plessis] is a young player and he is already playing at this level. He is going to be good," said Fleck.

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