Encouraged by Stormers fight, Lions set sights on Sharks scalp in URC showdown in Durban

The Lions are confident they’re building something solid in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and believe Saturday’s clash against the Sharks in Durban (3.30pm kick-off) is all about delivering the knockout blow to secure a second local derby win of the season.

Despite suffering a narrow 34–27 defeat to the Stormers two weeks ago, the Johannesburg-based side feels the result didn’t reflect how close they are to turning strong performances into statement victories. That belief is fuelled by their memorable win over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in November, a result that proved they can upset even the most formidable South African opposition.

Hooker PJ Botha revealed that post-match conversations with Stormers players a fortnight ago reinforced the Lions’ confidence. The feedback, he says, was encouraging, with opponents acknowledging that they were competitive across the park and only need to sharpen a few key areas to start converting pressure into points.

“We have a couple of work-ons from that Stormers game, and we are busy with that,” Botha said.

“The aim is to go to Durban and not just to compete, but to dominate this weekend. We are looking forward to the clash. Speaking to the Stormers players after that match, we believe we are in a great place, especially mentally and with our physicality.”

In Cape Town, the Lions pushed the defending champions all the way to the final whistle. They came agonisingly close to forcing a draw, only for a moment of brilliance from Stormers eighth man Evan Roos, who produced a decisive breakdown steal under his own posts to deny what would have been a match-levelling try.

According to Botha, the squad knows it can physically match any team in the competition. The focus now is on composure and execution — recognising opportunities when they arise and being ruthless enough to finish the job. Against a high-flying Sharks side at Kings Park, the Lions are convinced that accuracy, and intent could make all the difference.

“We went through a tough couple of games, but it is about taking the positives out of it and we look to improve weekly, especially individually. It is all about continuously working hard, trying to be better.

“Every single one of us must just stay in the moment. No one goes out to make a mistake on purpose. Rugby is a game of momentum and it swings around. We’ve been on the opposite side quite often, and we struggle to turn the momentum.

“The team is looking to turn it into our favour and to keep things going our way during games.”