From Currie Cup winner to EPCR Challenge Cup battler, the Lions environment is pushing Eddie Davids to new levels.
The loosehead prop has hit the ground running at Ellis Park following a loan move from Currie Cup champions Griquas. Davids has made his mark on the Pride, making six appearances across competitions and featuring in every Lions’ Challenge Cup match this season.
“It’s honestly been really special,” Davids said. “I’m really grateful for this wonderful opportunity. Moving to Joburg and joining the Lions has been a massive step up for me, both on and off the field.”
Davids has quickly discovered that standards at the Lions are uncompromising.
“The environment here pushes you every day,” he explained. “From the coaching staff to the players, everyone’s been welcoming, which has made settling in a whole lot easier for me.”
That welcome did little to ease the nerves when Davids made his debut in the Lions’ 43-33 win against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in round six of the URC.
“There definitely were nerves before kick-off,” he admitted. “That’s always there when you pull on the jersey for the first time. But once the game started, those nerves quickly turned into excitement and focus.
“It was a proud moment for me and my family. I was just grateful for the opportunity and wanted to do my job for the team.”
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One of the biggest influences in his early weeks at the Lions has been Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye, whose presence has helped accelerate Davids’ adjustment to URC rugby.
“Asenathi is definitely world class,” Davids said. “What’s impressed me most is his work ethic and professionalism. I’ve learned a lot from him around set-piece detail and physical preparation.”
Davids says there’s a significant jump from Currie Cup rugby to international club competition.
“The biggest difference is the consistency and intensity at this level. Every moment matters. There’s very little margin for error and teams punish you quickly.”
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The Lions are preparing for a demanding two-match European tour where they will face Perpignan in the Challenge Cup and the Ospreys in the URC.
“The message has been clear from the coaching staff,” he said. “We focus on our own processes and take it one game at a time. Touring in Europe is tough, so discipline, accuracy and effort will be crucial.”
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