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Lions fans must have feared the worst when star centre Henco van Wyk and Springbok fullback Quan Horn were ruled out of Saturday’s crunch United Rugby Championship clash against the Sharks at Ellis Park.
However, Manuel Rass and Tapiwa Mafura stepped into the breach with strong performances on attack and in defence in the dominant 38-14 victory for the home side.
The value of solid backup options was also demonstrated in the performance of Siba Qoma who came onto the field after the injury to flank Ruan Venter. Rass’ performance, in particular, did not surprise Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen.
“Because of the competition structure and time and length and challenges, we said from day one that it’s going to be a massive squad effort. And losing someone like Quan and Henco who, against the Stormers and Bulls have been really world class (was a blow). Ruan Venter was the same in those two games,” he said.
“Seeing Mannie train the way he is, we’re not surprised that he’s playing this way. He’s an absolute machine when it comes to training.
“I'm really happy for Tapiwa, he had a really great game. Siba (Qoma) went through one or two challenges with injury. Back two to three weeks, training well, playing well. I’m really proud of their effort and we can feel the squad is growing in terms of consistency.
“We can feel the squad is growing in terms of when this player is injured then it’s time for the next one to step up. I think we’ve shown a bit of growth there as well.”
The coach also praised the ability of flyhalf Gianni Lombard to spark the Lions into life in a rain-soaked encounter.
“He’s got a bit of confidence currently. You can see it, you can feel it. He’s that kind of player. When his tail is up he really drives the team well. He’s been a spark for us, hasn’t he?” he said.
Springbok scrumhalf Morne van den Berg was also able to dictate play for the Lions with his distribution and kicks out of the hand.
“His challenge has sometimes been in the wet when there’s a little bit of pressure. I think he’s grown immensely there,” Van Rooyen said.
The coach added that there was a slight chance that Van Wyk, Horn and Venter will be available for next weekend’s match against the Sharks at Kings Park. All three should be fit for the European tour later this month, however.