Lions will roar again, promises De Bruin

Rudolph Jacobs

The reality of the Golden Lions current Currie Cup struggles is that they are experiencing serious growing pains, believes coach Swys de Bruin (right).

The Lions suffered their fourth defeat in five starts last weekend against Western Province and De Bruin said there should be an understanding that the team is going through a transitional phase.

“We lost something like 19 players through the Springboks and Japan ventures, we have had suspensions and injuries,” said De Bruin. “We also released some players to the Kings and the Pumas so we don’t have a host of senior players left.

“But I’m not looking for excuses. On the contrary, I’m extremely positive and excited to bring the next generation through, but it could require some patience and understanding.”

The Lions face their next big challenge this weekend in Bloemfontein against the Cheetahs who are topping the log after winning four from their five matches.

“Looking at the log and seeing us at the bottom is a bit unreal for me after the highs of Super Rugby,” De Bruin said.

“But the Cheetahs looked very good against the Blue Bulls last weekend and it looks like their inclusion into the Pro14 has brought them a new lease of life.”

De Bruin names his side today with a question mark over prop Jacques van Rooyen’s head after injuring his calf last weekend.

“We might delay a call on Jacques until the weekend and with Ryan Kankowski still injured and Kwagga Smith still suspended, we don’t have many captaincy options left,” said De Bruin.

He added the most disappointing aspect for him about last weekend’s 39-3 loss to Province was their execution.

“We had something like 65% territory and 66% possession and made all the play, but they scored all the tries,” he said.

“It’s astonishing how many opportunities we squandered. But we’ll get better. It’s a case of starting from scratch yet again.”