Attack from the back: Lions must go on offensive
THERE have been glimpses, but for the most part the Lions’ victories these past few weeks have relied heavily on them shifting at speed against attacks as a unit, quickly encircling any breakouts, aggressively holding their line, and repelling any foray into their half.
Indeed, it has been their defence that has netted them their recent run of results, but today against Ulster (kick-off 2pm) in that URC clash, the Lions can cast off those tactics and perhaps go on the offensive.
It is largely due to the manicured pitch at Emirates Airline Park and the temperate climate of Johannesburg that the hosts might be able to express themselves in a fashion hereto unseen. Previously, in the cold and wet of Wales and Scotland, that wasn’t always possible.
Yes, there is a chance of a good old-fashioned thunderstorm rolling
over the Witwatersrand, but the drainage at Ellis Park is world class, the sun fierce and the bellowing storm of light and sound all too brief on a balmy Highveld afternoon.
In their victories against the Ospreys, Cardiff and Edinburgh, the Lions had to keep it tight – not because that is necessarily their style, but because the conditions demanded it. The backline had scant opportunities to express themselves.
Speaking on Thursday about the coming clash, defence coach Jaque Fourie said: “The conditions we played in Cardiff and at Edinburgh, you could hardly kick the ball. We knew that defence was going to win us those games. Back, in these conditions in Joburg, I think we are going to see a different style of play.”
The backline that will run out on Saturday, is certainly one that can move the ball. During the European tour, there were sightings of what the likes of Gianni Lombard, Marius Louw, Henco van Wyk and Quan Horn could achieve once given some space and width.
Flyhalf Lombard, in particular, has been mostly restrained in his performance, understanding that such an approach is what has been required. The No 10, however, has a set of wheels on him and once set a 100m personal best of 11.18 seconds.
Louw and Van Wyk, meanwhile, are building a healthy relationship. Both have shown some powerful runs; and have made a number of clean breaks, beating several defenders, while putting in massive shifts on defence.
“Marius is a quality player,” said Van Wyk, “I enjoy playing with him. I learn a lot from him and he leads by example. Hopefully, we can build on what we have now.”
Elsewhere, the back-three – especially wings Quan Horn and Edwill van der Merwe – have yet to be fully untethered. Horn showed his turn of speed in the dying moments against Cardiff.
Ulster are well known for their attack-minded approach – they are the leading team in that department so far this season – so an exciting style of rugby could be the order of the day, and that promises an exhilarating bout.