Lions to test ‘growth’ in exciting URC match-up with Benetton

The Lions are prepared for what could be an exciting game between two attacking sides when they take on Benetton in their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash at the Stadio Monigo on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

It is a massive match for both teams who are chasing a spot in the top eight to reach the URC play-offs, with Benetton currently ninth and the Lions 11^th on the log.

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It could thus be a cracking match-up between two teams who play a similar brand of rugby as they throw everything at each other to try clinch a full house of points and take a step towards the knockouts.

‘Quality team’

“Benetton like to throw the ball and we like to throw the ball. So I think it’s going to be a nice game to watch and the team that is more accurate and able to absorb the pressure best will do well,” said Lions forwards coach Julian Redelinghuys.

“Having spoken to the guys about last year’s game against Benetton (at Ellis Park) it was one of the most physical games we played. That’s something we look forward to, the physicality of the game and playing against a quality team.

“They have a few players who were involved in the Six Nations who we are expecting to come back this weekend. So it’s going to be a good battle and a really good game for us to see where we are.

“We feel we have grown over the last couple of weeks. Obviously it all comes down to what happens between the four white lines that actually counts, but we want to see the work the guys have put in come into play this weekend.”

Inside man

The Lions also have an inside man in their camp in fullback Andries Coetzee, who played for Benetton last season, and they have been tapping into his knowledge of the hosts ahead of the game.

“It’s good to have Boeboes (Coetzee) because he played here for a bit. We are not in the game of trying to get an unfair advantage,” explained Redelinghys.

“But the info he has given us about their character, what they take confidence from and what frustrates them, I think that’s valuable information for the team to have.

“Also to know what you are up against playing in these conditions on that field against a team that he knows well is also very helpful.

“We can have all the information but we still have to pitch up on the day. That will make the difference between getting the W or not.”