Lions give Gianni keys to unlock Stormers defence
02/14/2025 05:03 AM
Flyhalf Gianni Lombard will direct the Lions attack in the crucial URC clash against the Stormers at Ellis Park on Saturday.
It’s a must-win battle for the Lions and Stormers in another weekend of brutal South African derbies. The Lions are yet to win a local derby this season, losing to the Stormers 29-10 at Cape Town Stadium in December and falling to a 35-22 defeat at the hands of the Vodacom Bulls at Ellis Park three weeks ago.
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In just his second URC appearance of the season, Lombard makes his first start since May last year, taking over at flyhalf from Sam Francis, while rookie Lubabalo Dobela prepares to make his URC debut off the bench.
Lombard is joined by Darrien Landsberg and Marius Louw returning to the starting lineup, Louw stepping in for Rynhardt Jonker at centre and lock Landsberg replacing Ruan Delport, who shifts to the bench.
Lions captain Francke Horn will combine with Ruan Venter and JC Pretorious in a dynamic back row, while Etienne Oosthuizen links up with Landsberg in the second row.
Loosehead prop Juan Schoeman scrums down with veteran hooker PJ Botha and tighthead prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye.
In the backline, Henco van Wyk joins Louw in a formidable midfield partnership, while Bok duo Edwill van der Merwe and Quan Horn link with Richard Kriel to complete the backline threat.
Photo: Gallo Images
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