Lions v Munster: Five players who could make a difference in Limerick
Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen selects his match-23 today for tomorrow’s United Rugby Championship clash against an under-pressure Munster at Thomond Park in Limerick.
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Here, Morgan Bolton looks at five players he hopes will crack the nod for tomorrow’s clash (9.35pm kick-off), and who could have a major impact on the match...
Ruben Schoeman
Against Leinster, the Lions lock was arguably their best player on the park, and in many respects, outplayed his more illustrious opposition.
He made 18 tackles in that game, only missing two, while also effecting a turnover, making six carries and beating one defender.
But it was perhaps the fact that he was ever-present and noticeable throughout his 60 minutes that was most pleasing.
It was the type of performance that many have waited long to see from Schoeman. Hopefully he continues with that confidence against Munster, if selected.
Sibabalo Qoma
You can only really understand the stature of the former Cheetahs player once you have stood next to him. The 27-year-old flank is a unit, weighing in at 108kg, and is nearly 2m tall.
In the absence of Springbok Ruan Venter, there isn’t a more perfect bruiser to pull the No 7 jumper over his very broad shoulders.
Qoma has been prone to injury – he last played against Ulster in the second round of the URC, which was also his debut in the tournament – but on the occasions he has played, has made an impact with powerful carries.
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Sanele Nohamba
The ‘utility’ halfback has yet to make the same impression as last season. Springbok Morné van den Berg has been preferred in the No 9 jumper, while Kade Wolhuter has been awarded an extended run at flyhalf.
“I am starting back at zero after every season,” Nohamba admitted last week.
“It is about working on your craft and just staking your claim again – that is the most important thing, and that is what I am trying to do, regardless of whether it is at nine or 10.”
The 25-year-old can inject much needed needle into the Lions, unsettling opposition with his presence and X-factor.
He enjoys getting under the skin of his opponents and can back it up with some awe-inspiring play.
Will Thomond Park suit his game?
Arguably not so much at 10, as he lacks a territorial kicking game that will be important against Munster.
But if the Joburgers need an injection of inspiration, he can certainly add his talents to proceedings at scrumhalf.
It is also possible that Nohamba plays a secondary role again this weekend, and that the EPCR Champions Cup clash against the Ospreys next week will be his time to shine.
Henco van Wyk
Another player who has suffered from injuries, Van Wyk has slowly been returned to full match fitness over the first five games by the Lions’ management team.
The outside centre is yet to reach his full potential this campaign, although there have been flashes of his brilliance.
He is slowly rebuilding his confidence and form, but once he fully rediscovers it, an explosive ball-carrier and staunch defender will make the Lions’ top-four ambitions that much easier… He is that good.
Richard Kriel
The 24-year-old was arguably one of the Lions most consistent players last season, but has yet to impress during the new one.
Sure, he has only played two games so far, but it has been a pair of frustrating outings, out on the wing in tough conditions, against Zebre and Leinster.
Kriel’s selection in those matches was no doubt due to his height and perceived skills under the high ball.
Similar tactics are expected in Limerick against the former champions, and Kriel must show improvement in his match fitness.
Otherwise, selection pressure might see Lions coach Van Rooyen turn to Rabz Maxwane for the rest of the season.