Jordan Hendrikse hits the line against the Sharks. Image: Steve Haag Sports/INPHO/Shutterstock/BackpagePix
The Lions plan to unlock exciting potential
Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen has backed Jordan Hendrikse to get the Lions backline purring once more.
Jordan Hendrikse hits the line against the Sharks. Image: Steve Haag Sports/INPHO/Shutterstock/BackpagePix
The Lions are disappointed with their inability to get more ball into the hands of their exciting outside backs.
Playing electric rugby at times, the Lions want to find better form and push for a URC playoff spot.
The Lions have had to use Sanele Nohamba as a makeshift flyhalf but Jordan Hendrikse is set to return for the pride.
Lions plan to unlock outside backs
Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen has backed Hendrikse to get that backline purring.
“If you look at Jordan in training, and every time he comes on, we can see the difference. It is maybe something for us to consider,” Van Rooyen said.
“We have talent outside – you look at Henco (van Wyk), you look at Richard (Kriel), you look at Edwill (van der Merwe) – they don’t get enough ball in their hands, and that will be the plan for us going forward: get the ball to them and give those guys opportunities on the edges just to create havoc a bit.
“If they perform,” he continued, referring to the outside backs, “it is so much easier.
“I think now we have enough depth (to make changes to the starting XV). If you look at the guys that played against Montpellier, they put up their hands. As coaches, we need to sit down and look for the best combinations going into the Sharks game.”
Playoffs alive
Back-to-back losses to the Bulls mean the Lions have lost their last four but van Rooyen still has playoff hopes.
“There was a lot of frustration and disappointment when coming away from that Bulls disappointment (the Lions lost 25-10). The big thing is to just take our opportunities. We had chances in that game …
“Our big focus will be just in the moment, composure and when the opportunities (are) there we need to take them.
“Our planning needs to be spot-on,” he added.
“We have done a lot of research in terms of the Bull game, analysis and soul searching to focus on our strengths and really try and improve there … hopefully, the next game is the ideal opportunity for us.”
The Lions face the struggling Sharks this weekend.
