Fresh off their first win of the season, the Lions have been dealt a blow as they prepare to face an in-form Ulster at Ellis Park on Saturday. DYLAN JOHNSON reports.
Assistant coach Morne Steyn confirmed on Tuesday that Springbok scrumhalf Morne van den Berg will sit out to recover fully from a minor injury before joining the national side.
“Krappie is actually almost ready to play, but we don’t want to force him. Next week we have a week off, so that will give him two weeks to recover quite nicely,” Steyn said. “He’s in the Bok squad as well, so you don’t want to risk something and get him out of the tour.”
There was also disappointing news for flanker JC Pretorius, who faces a lengthy absence.
“JC, unfortunately, it sounds like he’s out for four months with a knee issue. That’s not good for us as a team and for JC. He’s one of our top players, so we’re really going to miss him,” Steyn added.
Reflecting on last weekend’s 29-18 victory over the Scarlets, Steyn praised the team’s composure but acknowledged areas for improvement.
“Looking back, I didn’t think it was our best game, but still we got five [log] points. That’s a positive for us. You don’t play great rugby, but still get five points, that’s great for the game coming up.”
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Steyn expects a tactical, physical contest against Ulster, who beat a Bok-heavy Sharks side 34-26 at Kings Park in round four.
“Ulster are a quality team. They’ve got great forwards and exciting backs. From nine to 15, almost all of them can kick, so it’s going to be a tough, physical battle. Luckily, we play in Joburg, so hopefully we can tire them a bit and run them around.”
Meanwhile, winger Eduan Keyter said victory over the Scarlets had given the team a boost after three defeats in Europe.
“It just gave us a bit of confidence and belief in ourselves. It was a tough tour, but this gave us a good start and makes us ready for the upcoming game.”
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Photo: Gallo Images
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