The Lions secured a gritty 10-9 victory over Zebre in the Rugby Championship on a rainy Saturday afternoon in Parma, Italy.
The Lions' fourth win of the season ensured they remain the only unbeaten South African team this season. The win takes the Lions to second place on the log with 18 points.
More impressively, Ivan van Rooyen's side demonstrated their determination by showing they can win in difficult conditions.
The Lions' character got them over the line in their win over the Dragons last weekend at Rodney Parade and it was also required in getting the job done against Zebre.
The pitch at the Sergio Lanfranchi Stadium was in poor condition due to heavy rainfall in the morning and showers during the match.
The Lions had prepared for the game knowing they would face wet and windy conditions. Despite their planning and preparations, the weather posed a challenge that tested the visitors from Johannesburg.
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Job done in wet, tricky conditions#ZEBvLIO #ForOurCity@Vodacom #URC | #HitsDifferent#LionsPride pic.twitter.com/4ueCNXEof9
The Lions struggled to settle into the game, unable to find their rhythm, while Zebre, more accustomed to such conditions, appeared comfortable.
The hosts played a strong kicking game, putting the Lions under pressure with contestable kicks. With the rain pouring down, the Lions struggled under the high ball. They were also second best in the scrums, with Zebre getting their timing right during engagements.
The ball, slippery and wet, seemed to stick with Zebre, whereas it betrayed the Lions, who kept losing it during passes, contact, and in rucks. Zebre's dominance was reflected in the scoreline, leading 6-0 after 20 minutes, thanks to two penalty
United Rugby Championship
URC
Lions
Rugby
Ivan Van-Rooyen