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Lions assistant coach Barend Pieterse says the team remains optimistic about turning their season around as they prepare to host Benetton in a must-win United Rugby Championship clash at Ellis Park Stadium this weekend.
Currently sitting 14th on the log, the Lions’ play-off hopes hang by a thread – a loss to the Italian visitors would all but end their chances with just three pool matches remaining.
Despite the odds, Pieterse believes the Johannesburg-based side can still crack a play-off spot.
"In a perfect world, we wouldn't want to be where we are now, but I think all of the coaches and all of the players really still believe we can make it.Â
"Here and there, you are probably hoping for one or two other results going your way as well. We can only take it game for game," said Pieterse.Â
Benetton will be without key players for the upcoming match against the Lions. The list includes Tomas Albornoz, Alessandro Izekor, and Sebastian Negri, but Lions flanker Ruan Venter remains cautious, acknowledging their brilliance this season.
"Benetton is good this season, they played in the Champions Cup, and they've been performing well in the URC. It's going to be a fast tempo game this weekend, which suits them, but it also suits us at Ellis Park," claimed Venter.
All the Lions’ remaining matches will be played at home, but they face the tough challenge of needing bonus-point wins to stay in contention.
