Lions bank Glasgow demolition as Van Rooyen eyes Connacht challenge
Ivan van Rooyen has credited a disciplined defensive gameplan — specifically denying Glasgow attacking lineouts inside the Lions' 22 — as the foundation for Saturday's 54-12 dismantling of the URC log leaders at Ellis Park.
The Lions ran in eight tries to avenge last season's 42-0 hiding in Scotland, a result Van Rooyen says left a lasting impression on the squad. "I very clearly remember the 42-0 defeat last year. Glasgow were just way too good for us on that occasion — they taught us a lesson in tempo, quick-ball and pressure," he said.
Central to the Lions' approach was neutralising Glasgow's lineout-driven attack, which Van Rooyen described as near-impossible to contain once it gains momentum inside the opposition 22. Keeping Glasgow scoreless in the opening exchanges was another deliberate target, given that Franco Smith's side rank as the quickest in the competition to score points in the first ten minutes. The Lions not only stopped that — they turned it around.
Van Rooyen also pointed to the Lions' free week during the Champions and Challenge Cup rounds as a significant factor, giving his squad an extra week of preparation that Ellis Park opponents Glasgow did not have. Smith acknowledged as much in his post-match assessment. "They looked so fresh and quick. They came with a good plan, put us under pressure and asked questions," the Glasgow coach said, adding a pointed observation about the Lions' squad depth: "What makes the Lions so good is the fact they've got Springbok-like players who aren't Springboks. These types of players are the most valuable at club level."
Captain Francke Horn was measured about the result, emphasising the Lions' week-by-week focus as they consolidate their top-eight position. "This last week it was only about Glasgow; this week will only be about Connacht," he said.
Connacht arrive at Ellis Park this Saturday in strong form, having recently beaten the Stormers, and Van Rooyen has flagged them as a similarly demanding assignment. "They are a very physical team and they also like to play high-tempo rugby," he said. "It's another tough challenge."
Elsewhere in the URC this weekend, the Sharks host Edinburgh on Friday, the Stormers face Glasgow, and the Bulls travel to Scarlets on Saturday.