Lions admit sweeping changes are needed to save URC season, but what exactly will that entail?

Four defeats in a row and the very real threat of an inaugural campaign in the United Rugby Championship going into a death spiral has prompted the Lions' team management to consider making striking changes.

Last weekend's 32-10 defeat at the hands of a Stormers combination that didn't even have to over-exert itself to achieve that comfortable scoreline leaves the men from Ellis Park in 14th position - third from bottom - and, distressingly, have played more matches than the two teams below them.

Afforded the luxury of a bye before a one-off trip to Dublin to face the imposing Leinster next week, they desperately require a re-think.

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"There's stuff that's improving on a weekly basis and then there's stuff that's not improving," Ivan van Rooyen, the Lions' head coach, admitted.

"Sometimes it's a system-based thing that's holding you back, but on other occasions, you need to sit back and assess whether it's a coaching or a player element.

"It's midway in our season and we have a few days to really reflect on what's working for us. I don't think it's a bad time for us for a bit of change, whether it's player-driven or a style of play issue.  It is fair to say that one of those things should change."

Should Van Rooyen and his lieutenants determine they might need to tweak the blueprint, there will be reservations.

In general, the Lions, to their credit, embraced the need for a more balance game-plan in Europe from the outset and while they've clearly struggled to execute it consistently, what is the alternative?

It's unlikely that the franchise can return to their attacking roots of their prime in Super Rugby.

And, given that it's basic