The Lions have claimed the SA Shield for the first time after a gritty win over the Stormers. Coach Ivan van Rooyen hails a "different mindset" as the key to their defensive masterclass. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
The Lions believe a shift in mindset is beginning to bear fruit after Saturday’s hard-fought United Rugby Championship victory over the Stormers at Ellis Park saw them lift the SA Shield for the first time.
Coach Ivan van Rooyen said the difference in recent weeks has not necessarily been tactical, but mental.
"The mindset from our side does feel different. In the past we would say we were good enough in one or two moments. Currently we’re finding ways in the game to swing it our way,” he said.
That ability to problem-solve under pressure was evident in a match that demanded resilience, particularly in the closing stages.
Accoring to Van Rooyen, the Lions’ set piece did not function at the level they expect, yet their defensive effort – especially in the final 20 minutes – proved decisive.
“Our body height the last two weeks has been a lot better and that’s why we’ve managed to stop momentum,” he said. “That’s the first domino that must fall. I was immensely proud of the effort and the fight.”
The hosts were forced to absorb wave after wave of Stormers pressure, at times defending with 14 and even 13 men after a late yellow and red card. Players shifted positions, with star scrumhlaf Morne “Krappie” van den Berg moving to the wing and replacement No 9 Nico Steyn contributing an impactful cameo, underlining what Van Rooyen described as a collective effort from all 23 players.
“I haven’t even checked the possession stats, but it feels like we had to defend four times more,” he said. “To do that against world-class players, under that pressure, makes me unbelievably proud.”
Captain Franke Horn revealed that a frank training-ground discussion earlier in the week had helped lay the foundation.
“We got a bit niggly on Thursday and frustrated when things didn’t go our way,” Horn said.
“We said that if it happens in a game, we can’t fall into that spiral. Today the attitude was there – energy, leaders helping with solutions, and then just executing.”
Van Rooyen believes improved results in South African derbies could ultimately define their campaign, after previous seasons saw them narrowly miss out on the Top 8. With a week off to recover before a crucial run-in – including four more tough home games – the Lions feel they are building a new defensive standard.