The Lions’ sledgehammer prop, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, believes the Joburg-based team will snap their three-match losing streak in the United Championship when they host the Scarlets at Ellis Park on Saturday.
It is a match the Lions should expect to win, given the Welsh team has issues at home as they negotiate restructuring issues, with Wales Rugby in a state of flux.
“It is good to be back at home after three weeks away,” the 150kg Ntlabakanye said. “Both teams are under pressure this weekend – the Scarlets just got beaten by the Stormers, and Benetton beat us.
“We’ll need to rectify that at home, and the prep has been good this week. Obviously, confidence is not something you can talk about; it is something that you go out there and show.”
Ntlabakanye is, in fact, a senior at 26 years old, and as a Springbok, he must lead the way.
“As the tight five, we pride ourselves on stopping and gaining momentum. That was not always the case last week.
“As the tight five, we have to look at each other. For us as a group in general, we have to step up.”
Injuries have forced the Lions to bring in Eddie Davids, Leon Lyons, Janco Uys, and Dylan de Leeuw on loan deals from Griquas and the Bulls to bolster their front row. Ntlabakanye is excited about the new additions and the energy they bring to the squad.
“The guys who just came in are gelling nicely with the team, and we just had our first unit session with them. It’s nice to see new blood in the camp and guys who are ready to challenge for positions.
“It’s time to get back on the horse and start playing some good rugby again,” he added.
