Lions captain Francke Horn relieved to get first URC victory of the season

Van Rooyen charges came short against Cardiff, Zebre and Benneton on their United Rugby Championship trip up north. On Saturday, they returned to Johannesburg and earned a hard-fought 29-18 win over Scarlets. It was a match of attrition, with the hosts leading 5-3 at halftime. A late surge secured the Lions a bonus point win.

In the wake of securing those five valuable log points, captain Horn cut a relieved figure.

"Firstly, I'd say the feeling is one of relief," he told the media.

"We've worked hard the last four weeks, although the results didn't show it. We're very grateful for the win.

"It was a bit nervy at the end, but the guys kept calm and stuck to the plan, did the basics, and we secured the five points.

"There's still a lot to fix, and it's definitely a step in the right direction. This [result] will just build confidence for the team going forward."

But it doesn't get easier for the Lions. Next Saturday, they face an undefeated Ulster outfit fresh off defeating the Sharks in Durban. Van Rooyen is under no illusion as to the challenge that awaits his Lions.

"They're one of the form teams thus far this season, they're really looking good," said van Rooyen.

"Our cohesion on attack should allow us to utilise the pictures we created [against Scarlets] as well as our attacking breakdown.

"We also need to ensure we have consistency all around and ensure we're all on the same page.

"Whether that's attack, defence or kicking set it is. Everyone knows what to do, whether we're applying pressure and when we're under it to get the best outcome for the team."

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