News

Lions must stop Kankowski

October 09 2008

How well the Lions cope with barnstorming Sharks number eight Ryan Kankowski has been identified a possible deciding factor by both coaches ahead of their Currie Cup semi-final in Durban on Saturday.

Kankowski was instrumental in the Lions' downfall when the Sharks visited Ellis Park two weeks ago and the Lions have learnt their lesson: give him space to run in, and you will be punished.

Lions coach Eugene Eloff says his team won't be concentrating on any individuals, but rather playing to a pattern that will nullify the impact of certain game-breakers.

"We won't only be concentrating on those players but on the team as a whole," Eloff explained.

"It will be important to retain good structure against them and to ensure play does not become too loose. If that happens, guys such as Ryan Kankowski and Keegan Daniel can start running from midfield. They must be drawn in and forced to become involved in the rucks instead of standing off, waiting for opportunities to run."

Sharks coach John Plumtree is well aware that the Lions will be aiming to suck players into the breakdown, using their fetcher extraordinaire Cobus Grobbelaar to grapple for possession.

"We can get our share of quick ball, alright. While the Lions are a very tough and physical side at the breakdown, we can also dish it out. It is hardly going to be one-way traffic at the breakdowns," said Plumtree.

Despite having lost to the Sharks twice this year, 16-11 in Durban and 20-34 in Jo'burg, Eloff has every reason to believe that his side can upset their hosts in the Shark Tank, as they did in last year's semi-final.

The Lions mastermind has cited the 2007 World Cup and the way France and England upset their more fancied opponents New Zealand and Australia as examples of how underdogs can win on any given day.

"Matches such as this one on Saturday are won by the hungriest teams; the ones that make fewest mistakes, seize their opportunities and defend best," Eloff told Super Sport, adding that his side were "fresh and prepared" after two days of "active rest."

Both coaches have expressed their pleasure with the appointment of Mark Lawrence as referee.

"Mark has handled many big games and he has the right temperament for it. I believe he will be consistent and act according to what he sees," said Eloff.

"Mark Lawrence is the referee and that's great, he's been in good form," added Plumtree.

"He handled the Super 14 final this year and knows us well; we're more than happy with his appointment."