Lions survive Griquas scare to claim another victory
The MTN Golden Lions extended their lead at the top of the Currie Cup log when they withstood a fierce comeback from the GWK Griquas to claim a 41-25 victory at Coca-Cola Park in Johannesburg.
The first half was all red and white with the Lions crossing the whitewash three times via Deon van Rensburg, Pat Cilliers and Michael Killian. Killian’s try was probably the highlight of the night as Bandise Maku first got his hands through a tackle and off-loaded to a speeding Killian on the outside. Killian then finished off the move with some superb stepping and a sprint for the corner. The Griquas could only convert two penalties to trail 20-6 at half time.
The second half was a different story with the Griquas dominating territory and possession but failing to convert their opportunities into points. The Lions on the other hand made the most of the little possession they had and saw Deon van Rensburg crossing over for his second of the night. A few minutes later Alwyn Hollenbach also got on the scoreboard with a try of his own. After this the Lions were caught on the wrong side of the law and referee Mark Lawrence sent Jaco Taute and Doppies la Grange packing with a yellow card each. The Griquas used this time well and launched a comeback with tries via Jonathan Mokoena, Ryno Barnes and Earl Rose. But it was too little too late for the boys from Kimberley as they let the game get away from them earlier.
To rub salt further into the wounds, the Lions decided to launch a final attack which paid off when Jaco Taute scored his side’s sixth try of the night. Credit must go to the Lions defense who kept a strong Griquas offense scoreless for long periods of time in the second half.
Scorers:
MTN GOLDEN LIONS: 41
Tries: Deon van Rensburg (2), Pat Cilliers, Michael Killian, Alwyn Hollenbach, Jaco Taute
Conversions: Elton Jantjies (4)
Penalty: Elton Jantjies
GWK GRIQUAS: 25
Tries: Jonathan Mokoena, Ryno Barnes, Earl Rose
Conversions: Rudi Vogt (2)
Penalties: Rudi Vogt (2)
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