Lions visit East Rand Mall
Super Rugby franchise, the Lions, took time off the rugby field to pay homage to their fans at East Rand Mall on Tuesday, April 1.
The Ellis Park outfit signed rugby balls, T-shirts and cards, just to name a few of the merchandise ahead of their home clash with the Crusaders this Saturday.
“The Lions took this initiative (to visit the mall) to meet and show our appreciation to our fans,” said CEO Manie Booysen.
Lions coach Johan Ackermann echoed Booysen’s sentiments.
“We obviously wanted to give something back to our fans in the East Rand, which can only be good for the community and our sponsors,” said Ackermann.
The Lions sit in second position behind the Sharks on the South African Conference log and fourth in the overall log.
The coach has put positive chemistry in the squad as the reason behind their impressive run in this year’s Super Rugby competition.
“The guys are willing to work hard and there’s good spirit in the team. We are a team blessed with talent and the guys are willing to go out on the pitch to showcase their talent.”
Asked about this weekend’s clash against the seven-time champion Crusaders, who have had an indifferent campaign thus far, Ackermann warned against writing-off the New Zealanders.
“They’ve had a tricky start (to the season) so they’re going to want to prove a point, they’re going to be desperate for a win.
“They have a number of All Blacks in their side like Kieran Read, Andy Ellis and Israel Dagg; and the All Blacks should never be underestimated.”
