Lions are today a feeder union

THE news Vincent Tshituka had signed a three-year deal with the Sharks was devastating.

For the whole of Monday there was moping, lamentation, despair, heartache and grief the powerhouse flank was leaving the Lions for Durban; and in the pit of my belly, I can still feel the woe of melancholy coiling around my intestines, reminding me of the loss.

Extremely dramatic, I know, but certainly an indicator of the high regard I – and many others – hold for the elder Tshituka. It was my steadfast belief the 24-year-old was one of the crucial building blocks in my beloved Lions to return as contenders in seasons to come.

Being a Lions supporter this millennium has been a tough assignment – for every high, there has been myriad lows. The euphoria of three SuperRugby finals, the most recent as near as 2018, seems a distant memory – a bright star blinking in and out of existence as it circles a black hole.

I weep, I tell you, I weep.

Just like me, the Lions are in this strange funk that is difficult to explain. From lofty heights, they dwell back in a rut seemingly of their own making. Sure, they have lost several star players in recent seasons, but you’d think that after touching success they would have the resources to remain on top.

It would be fair to say the union has lost all its momentum, and is stuck in limbo – a purgatory of always having to rebuild its squad’s depth and experience. The loss of Tshituka speaks to this.

The Lions seem powerless to stop such movements. Apparently, there are more to come.

I don’t blame Tshituka. After all, this is a professional sport and money will beat loyalty, especially if you have the deep coffers the Sharks enjoy.

My concern is the Joburgers are locked in a cycle of identifying young talent, uplifting them and then losing them.

Peeps were poking fun at the Lions’ expense this week – it’s become a feeder team for the Bulls, Sharks and Stormers. I don’t find that funny because if you are a Lions supporter, the fear is very real.