Share

Jantjies emotional after Lions victory

Johannesburg - Lions flyhalf Elton Jantjies was understandably thrilled with his side's performance in their semi-final win over the Highlanders in Johannesburg on Saturday.

An emotional Jantjies, who won the man of the match award after scoring 22 points in the 42-30 triumph, said although the side delivered a special effort they have to stay focused ahead of next weekend's final against the Hurricanes in Wellington.

"I don't have a lot of words, but it is a big year," he said.

"We still have another week to go."

Although Jantjies was superb on attack he also impressed in defence and stopped several Highlanders in their tracks with some brave tackles.

"We had to take responsibility, especially after last week [against the Crusaders] when we missed a few one-on-one tackles - we had to fix it this week," he added. 

"It was a great performance from the team, but also from the Highlanders side as well - they played for the full 80." 

Lions head coach Johan Ackermann admitted that a difficult task awaits his troops in Wellington on Saturday but feels they can upset the Hurricanes on their home turf.

"It is a big challenge against a tremendous Hurricanes side," he said. 

"The guys love touring and hopefully we will travel well. We will give it our best shot - there is nothing more I can ask from the guys.

"All the pressure is on the Hurricanes. They ended No.1 and they are playing at home, so we can just go out there and enjoy our game."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1205 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1404 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2128 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE