Emirates Lions coach Swys de Bruin has lamented that they are going to Loftus on Saturday to take on the Vodacom Bulls knowing very well that the need a victory to ensure their Vodacom Super Rugby play-offs spot. (Kick-off at 17:15)
The Highlanders and the Chiefs leap-frogged the Lions on Friday morning with bonus point victories over Waratahs and the Rebels respectively, to sit sixth and seventh on the log.
De Bruin says they knew that they have to do their own dirty work from the start and go to Loftus and win.
The Springboks assistant coach Du Bruin commended other South African franchise teams who are also in contention for playoff positions, namely the Bulls, DHL Stormers and the Cell C Sharks.
He adds that they are ready to fight the Bulls.
With a number of Bulls senior players playing their last matches for the team, before taking up lucrative contracts overseas, the Lions are looking to cement a playoff spot. Du Bruin says they know it will be an emotional clash on Saturday.
Following their crushing 37-17 loss to the Hurricanes at home last week, Du Bruin eventually spoke out about the frustrations they endured with New Zealand teams playing from offside positions around the rucks.
However, he adds that they excepted it and will find ways to counter the Australasians, should they make it into the playoffs. – Report by Thando Gqamane
