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George - Even though the fight the Southern Kings put up against the Lions on Tuesday was rather meek, Lions coach John Mitchell believes the experience was invaluable.
Mitchell was not overly concerned by the hapless nature of the Kings’ resistance after his side thrashed the Southern Cape side 88-0 at Outeniqua Park.
He did not hesitate in saying the Kings’ line-up, consisting mostly of SWD Eagles and Border players, would not cut it in Super Rugby.
“It was a good practice run,” Mitchell said. “When we faced similar opposition last year, we were sloppy.”
Rumours about the Lions’ vulnerability as a result of the Kings' inclusion in Super Rugby in 2013 have been widespread, but the result emphatically underlined its lack of credibility.
“Games like these aren’t easy, though,” Mitchell added. “Sometimes you let your standard drop to that of the opposition.”
Another positive for the Lions was the news that Ruaan Botha’s ankle injury seems less serious than first thought when the 20-year-old lock was carried off the field.
“If he’s lucky he might only be out for three weeks,” the Lions coach said before praising the fallen youngster.
“But my word, I thought he was outstanding.”
