Lions boosted by return of Francke Horn, Chris Smith and Eduan Keyter for Zebre clash
United Rugby Championship
Former skipper Francke Horn is in line for a return for the Lions in their United Rugby Championship match against Zebre in Parma on Sunday.
Image: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
The Lions will be boosted by the timely return from injury of inspirational former skipper Francke Horn, flyhalf Chris Smith and utility back Eduan Keyter ahead of Sunday’s URC round two clash against Zebre in Parma, as their injury cloud finally shows signs of lifting.
The news of the trio’s availability was confirmed by Lions assistant coach Jaque Fourie on Monday.
“We’ve had a lot of big injuries, if you have a look at all our props, our hookers,” Fourie said from Parma, northern Italy.
“Horn is fit again and we’re probably looking at getting him in on the weekend. Chris is also back.
"He’s been very important for us at 10. You need someone to drive your team to play in the right areas, so he’s also looking good for this weekend. And then Keyter is also back, so hopefully we can give him a run.”
The Lions will be looking to bounce back from the weekend’s defeat against Cardiff. However, Fourie was keen to dismiss the notion that Sunday’s result is a foregone conclusion, especially after Zebre’s win over Edinburgh in their season opener.
“There’s no more easy team in the URC. Every team that you play at home is going to be tough, so you’re going to have to rock up 100% ready physically and mentally for the game to play and perform,” he said.
“I think if we look at Zebre the last three years, they’ve improved immensely. They are a team that plays with freedom. They had a good game against Edinburgh.
“The Italian sides play with a lot of passion. We know they’re a side that never gives up.
"I think the first time we played them here we were ahead 35-0 at half-time and they came back very strong, so they will always fight, they will always play. They’re a side that plays with a lot of confidence and we just need to take that confidence away very early on.”
Loose-forward Horne’s leadership qualities, and his strong link-up play, could prove especially valuable as the Lions try to end their three-match tour on a high.
Kick-off on Sunday is at 4pm.