Lions ‘can build on momentum’
MAPOE: STAR CENTRE IS READY TO EXPRESS HIMSELF
Rudolph Jacobs
As one of the older hands in the Golden Lions team, experienced centre Lionel Mapoe doesn’t feel he has something to prove in the Currie Cup.
Recently released from the Springbok squad after scoring twice against Argentina in Mendoza, Mapoe said yesterday he wanted to add value to the Lions team and make sure he was ready when the next national call came.
“I told myself I can either take it as a positive or a negative (returning to domestic level) and the focus is to come down to the Currie Cup and enjoy my time here,” Mapoe said.
The Lions are set to host Western Province on Saturday, with both sides remaining unbeaten in the competition, and Mapoe felt it was a platform where he could express himself.
“We have a goal and that is to do well in the Currie Cup,” he said.
“When the call comes up I’m always here and available, and I know if I perform well I’ll be rewarded, but it feels good to play Currie Cup again.
“I think the last time was about three years ago, and with an abundance of young guys it’s quite amazing.”
While both teams were among the early Currie Cup contenders, Mapoe believed the Lions can build on the momentum they had created when they turn out against Province.
“There’s no easy game and you have to pitch up every weekend,” he said.
“We know this weekend the competition will be much tougher, but we are preparing well and trying to fix the mistakes of last weekend.”
Returning to the Currie Cup would give him more time on the ball, and Mapoe was eager to capitalise on the opportunity.
“You have more time on your hands to actually read the game compared to Test match rugby,” he said.
The Lions were handed a blow ahead of the clash against Province, with wing Madosh Tambwe being ruled out for the rest of the season after fracturing his ankle at the weekend.