Lions looking to make their mark in Kimberley

The Fidelity ADT Lions make the trip to the Diamond City this weekend for Round 4 of the Carling Currie Cup. Head coach Mziwakhe Nkosi’s men are on a winning momentum with victories in their last two fixtures, notably a convincing 42-19 victory over neighbours the Vodacom Bulls XVat the University of Johannesburg Stadium last week Saturday.

The trip to the Northern Cape however is probably their toughest challenge yet. Poised as the ‘grudge match’, this top of the table clash will be the first time the two teams meet since last year’s Currie Cup final at 10bet Ellis Park where the visitors clinched a famous last-minute victory, claiming the bragging rights as tournament champions.

Despite that, Nkosi believes his side needs to put in the work at the Suzuki Stadium regardless of what the history books have documented.

“First things first, it’s a top of the table clash, so that in itself will add a bit of spice to the contest,” Nkosi pointed out.

“Secondly the results have been to and fro in our favour over the last couple of seasons. Lastly, it’s an occasion for them as they are celebrating their 140th year so there’s plenty motivation for us to pitch up and get a good result against them.”

In team news, Jarod Cairns leads the side from the back row due to the suspension of regular skipper Ruan Delport. Tiaan Wessels benefits from him skipper’s absence which sees him jumping alongside last week’s Player of the Match Dylan Sjoblom. In the backline, veteran winger Rabz Maxwane makes way for Jason Hugo - who makes his first appearance in this year’s campaign.

Centre Rynhardt Jonker retains the 12 jumper despite leaving the field last week but has recovered from his ankle niggle to face his former team.

Also included in Saturday’s match 23 are the recently crowned world champion duo at junior international level, JD Hattingh and Luke Cannon. Scrumhalf Layton Horn returns to the bench after missing out last week.

Fidelity ADT Lions starting XV: 15 Gilermo Mentoe, 14 Keagan Smith, 13 Likhona Finca, 12 Rynhardt Jonker, 11 Jason Hugo; 10 Sam Francis, 9 Asad Moos; 8 Morne Venter, 7 Jarod Cairns (capt), 6 Thando Biyela; 5 Dylan Sjoblom, 4 Tiaan Wessels; 3 Conraad van Vuuren, 2 Mahle Sithole, 1 Morgan Naude. Replacements: 16 Ruan Welman, 17 Cecil Parsons, 18 Ruan Swart, 19 JD Hattingh, 20 Renzo du Plessis, 21 Layton Horn, 22 Exauce Kevani, 23 Luke Cannon.