The Lions have their eyes on the prize this URC season, aiming for more than just playoff participation. Nico Steyn, the 24-year-old scrumhalf, shared their ambitious goal following their historic campaign last year.
After reaching the URC playoffs for the first time and exiting in the quarter-finals with a sobering loss to Leinster, the Lions are hungry for advancement. "It was our goal last season to finish among the top eight teams so that we could play in the knockout rounds. But now that we have achieved that, we want more," said Steyn.
"We don’t just want to finish among the top eight again. Earlier this week we said to each other that we want to play in a home semi-final."
The Lions have kickstarted their season with a re-match against Leinster at Ellis Park, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling campaign. This clash comes as a perfect opportunity for the Lions to set the tone.
Steyn's profile has surged following his last URC season, earning him a spot in the South Africa A squad. "It actually came as a big shock to me. I only received the message on Saturday evening that I had to join them the following day. I was over the moon about the opportunity," he reflected.
This unexpected call-up provided him a chance to mingle with some of the best in the nation, leaving a significant mark on him. "It was wonderful to be part of that group before the match. Everyone knew what the plan was, who was going to play where and what the objectives were. The match was really special and it lit a fire in me," Steyn shared, clutching onto the inspiration from his international experience.
As the Lions march forward, their initial devastating loss against Leinster now fuels their determination for home advantage in the forthcoming semi-finals. This season, they are not just participants but contenders, aiming to rewrite their story with greater success and home-ground fervor.
