The Lions are set to thrill rugby fans as they bring two rising stars from the Junior Springboks into their lineup for the upcoming confrontation with the Vodacom Bulls XV. This Saturday at UJ Stadium marks a pivotal moment, especially for Gilermo Mentoe as he makes his senior rugby debut. Meanwhile, Asad Moos, another former Junior Bok, will also start for the Johannesburg team in what is only his second game since leaving the Stormers.
The Lions, under the guidance of Mziwakhe Nkosi, are entering the Jukskei derby riding high on confidence from last week's decisive victory over the Pumas. On the other hand, the Bulls are desperate for their first season win, adding an extra layer of intensity to the matchup.
"We would be silly to take the Bulls lightly this Saturday. They have outstanding players, coupled with a good coaching staff and probably have just had a rough draw in the competition by playing their first three games away from home. I have no doubt that they’ll be up for the challenge. In fact, the last time we played against the Bulls with the same management team, we lost to them in the U23 Cup final at Ellis Park. There is little to no chance of us taking them lightly."
Mentoe, a standout from Bishops, will take his place at fullback, supported by an experienced backline that includes Rabz Maxwane, Rynhardt Jonker, and Keegan Smith. Moos is set to partner with Sam Francis at halfback.
Ruan Delport will captain the team, leading a solid pack that includes Morné Venter, Jarod Cairns, and Thando Biyela in the back row. The team's strength is further bolstered by a dynamic bench poised to bring energy and resolve into the fray.
Here's how the Lions will line up: 1. Morgan Naude 2. Mahle Sithole 3. Conraad van Vuuren 4. Dylan Sjoblom 5. Ruan Delport (c) 6. Thando Biyela 7. Jarod Cairns 8. Morné Venter 9. Asad Moos 10. Sam Francis 11. Rabz Maxwane 12. Rynhardt Jonker 13. Likhona Finca 14. Keegan Smith 15. Gilermo Mentoe Substitutes: 16. Ruan Welman 17. Cecil Parsons 18. Ruan Swart 19. Marco Ferreira 20. Renzo du Plessis 21. Zian Cilliers 22. Matthew Coetzee 23. Exauce Kevani
Join the excitement this Saturday and support the Lions as they face off against the Bulls. Get your tickets now and join the roaring crowd backing our boys!
