Lions target set-piece response in decisive Sharks URC derby

The Johannesburg side edged the Sharks 23-22 in Durban last month and can complete a season double while keeping their South African Shield hopes alive. The Sharks, six points clear at the top of the local standings with one game remaining after this round, can seal the Shield with victory in Joburg.

The teams are level on 24 log points overall, with the Sharks ninth on points difference, one place above the Lions.

The forward battle has dominated the build-up after the Lions were overpowered 52-17 by the Bulls before the break, losing five of 12 lineouts and managing just 69% success on their own ball.

Lions forwards coach Wessel Roux admitted the display fell short.

"On the day, we were really just not our best selves. There were technical and fundamental issues we've discussed and worked on," said Roux.

He expects another stern test from a Sharks pack buoyed by back-to-back derby wins over the Stormers.

"The Sharks pack is firing quite nicely⦠They're a world-class pack and a world-class team. It feels like a Test match we're preparing for," he said.

Lock Reinhard Nothnagel also pointed to the set piece as decisive.

"Set-piece is a massive part of their game. Their (the Sharks') lineouts are really good under coach Warren Whiteley," Nothnagel said.

"They have a very good lineout system and put teams under pressure contesting-wise. It will be a massive battle for both teams to win their own ball."

With Sharks prop Vincent Koch labelling it a "proper South African derby", the scrum is expected to be another key contest. Nothnagel believes dominance up front will provide the platform for the Lions' attacking threats.

"It's a South African derby, so everything starts with physicality. If we win that battle, we can lay a great platform for our backs. If you beat them at scrum, lineout and physicality, we have exciting backs who can change the game," said Nothnagel.

Despite recent setbacks, including a heavy loss to the Bulls, Nothnagel insists the squad is ready to respond.

"We know we weren't up to standard on the day, so we need to make a step up against the Sharks," said the second-rower.

With Shield honours and log position on the line, Saturday's clash promises near Test-match intensity.

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