Lions coach Johan Ackermann has called on his players to believe in themselves and to play with heart and effort when they square up to the Rebels in a Super Rugby match in Melbourne tomorrow.
The Lions dominated most facets of the game against the Crusaders last weekend but let in four tries, while scoring just two penalties, suffering their fourth defeat of the competition.
Ackermann conceded it was frustrating to see his players do the hard work but not get the reward. The Lions have managed to score just three tries in their five games, having bossed matters against the Hurricanes and Stormers in particular. They also enjoyed plenty of possession against the Sharks and Crusaders.
Surprisingly, in the only match they’ve won – against the Blues – they were on the back foot for most of the 80 minutes, with only outstanding defence and poor finishing on the part of the Blues allowing Ackermann’s team to snatch the win.
When asked about his side’s poor strike rate, Ackermann expressed frustration but said: “But this game is all about margins… one pass or one ruck that isn’t accurate and the opportunity’s gone.
“It’s all about decision-making. We’re making a lot of line-breaks but we’re not showing enough patience with the ball.”
Ackermann said he wanted to see another 80-minute effort from his players against the Rebels tomorrow – as when they faced the Blues.
“If we can get that, then hopefully the results will come; that is a good set piece and good decision making for 80 minutes. Like I’ve said before, there are no easy games and no guarantees in this competition. Any team can beat any other team and the Rebels are in good form at the moment and they’re a side who play for 80 minutes.
“But we’re going to back ourselves and keep believing. I back the players and I want them to continue to play with freedom. I don’t want them to think they’re under pressure because you can’t play in that state of mind.
“I want the guys to play according to the plan and with heart and effort. I can’t ask for more.”
While the Rebels would normally be viewed as a weaker side, the men from Melbourne go into this match on the back of two away wins – against the Western Force last weekend and Crusaders, in round one. But, they’ve also lost twice, both at home, against the Waratahs and Brumbies. They’re ninth on the log, while the Lions are 13th.
It will be Ackermann and co’s first visit to Melbourne with the only two prior clashes occurring at Ellis Park, both won by the Lions.
The match kicks off at 10.40am (SA time).
Meanwhile, Springbok flank Heinrich Brussow has been included in the Cheetahs’s run-on side for the first time this season for the match against the Crusaders on Saturday.
Brussow impressed from off the bench in last weekend’s defeat by the Sharks in Bloemfontein, having recovered from concussion. He is one of four changes, the others being Clayton Blommetjies, Joe Pietersen and Tian Meyer.
Having won twice and lost twice in South Africa, Naka Drotske’s side will be hoping for a good start to their Australasian tour. The Crusaders are coming off a victory against the Lions. - The Star