Steyn backs kicking game as Lions target momentum against Ulster

Steyn admits that, despite last weekend’s much-needed victory over the Scarlets, their first win of the season, there’s still room for improvement, particularly in their kicking execution. He says flyhalf Chris Smith and the kicking unit will need to be sharper if they hope to control territory on the Highveld.

"This past weekend, Chris didn't have a great day with the kicking tee, but overall there is a lot of work that needs to be done, because right now the kicking is not up to standard.

"It was just a bit of an off day for Chris, like any other sportsman who has bad days at the office."

READ: URC: Stormers ring the changes for Benetton clash in Treviso

The Lions’ bonus-point win over the Scarlets brought relief after a tough European tour and three straight defeats.

Steyn, one of South Africa’s finest tactical kickers, believes Smith’s growing confidence and control at flyhalf will be key to keeping Ulster under pressure, especially at altitude, where an accurate kicking plan can make all the difference.

Head coach Ivan van Rooyen has made minimal changes to the squad, with injuries forcing a few adjustments.

JC Pretorius misses out after suffering a knock, replaced by Jarod Cairns, who moves into the starting lineup.

Reinhard Nothnagel returns to the run-on side, while Bronson Mills starts at inside centre in place of Richard Kriel.

Steyn says the focus this week has been on refining execution and maintaining momentum, especially after last weekend’s encouraging performance.

"The main thing for us to focus on ourselves and not focus too much on them. There is always room for improvement, and if we can play at our best level, than we stand a very good chance of winning."

Ulster come into the fixture high on confidence after a 34–26 victory over the Sharks in Durban.

The Irish side sit fifth on the URC table with 15 points from three wins, including bonus-point victories over the Dragons, Bulls, and Sharks.

The Lions are currently 11th, and Steyn knows they’ll need to be clinical to upset one of the competition’s most consistent teams.