Jordan Hendrikse (Rooster)
The Lions secured their second successive United Rugby Championship (URC) victory at home by beating the Scarlets of Wales 32-15 on Sunday.
In 30 degree Celsius conditions and an early start to contend with, the Lions started with an expansive game plan from the outset.
That approach paid off as they quickly took a 15-0 lead thanks to tries from Rabz Maxwane and Emmanuel Tshituka and a penalty and conversion from fly half Jordan Hendrikse.
The Scarlets got further into the game as the half wore on and were rewarded with Dan Davis’ attempt at an impressive rolling maul as the teams entered half time with the score 18-5.
The Lions were the first to score after half time when a brilliantly crafted lineout move saw veteran winger Jaco Kriel cross to convert a try.
Scarlets hit back soon after through winger Tom Rogers, who went wide around the right corner for an unconverted try after the Lions simply ran out of defenders.
That cut the home side’s lead to 25-10 with 20 minutes to go.
The fourth quarter was riddled with errors, not surprising considering the intense heat at Ellis Park, but the Lions clinched victory on a second try from Tshituka while the Scarlets had the last word with a consolation try through by Sam Lousi.
scorers
Lions 32 (18)
Attempts: Rabz Maxwane, Emmanuel Tshituka (2), Jaco Kriel
Conversions: Jordan Hendrikse (3)
Sanctions: Jordan Hendrickse (2)
scarlet 15 (5)
Attempts: Dan Davis, Tom Rogers, Sam Lousi
