Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
5h ago

Fitness Boost for Lions as Horn, Smith and Keyter Return to Contention for Zebre Trip

Assistant coach Jaque Fourie says the trio are fit after injuries to lift a side coming off a 33-20 loss to Cardiff.

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - MARCH 01:Francke Horn of Emirates Lions in action with Ethan Hooker of Hollywoodbets Sharks during the United Rugby Championship match between Emirates Lions and Hollywoodbets Sharks at Emirates Airline Park on March 01, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Gallo Images)
Lions fullback Quan Horn of Lions is tackled by Cardiff's Jacob Beetham with centre Henco van Wyk in support, during the URC match between the teams over the past weekend. Picture: Kian Abdullah/Gallo Images
Lions get key players back 'at the right time'

Overview

  • Fourie confirmed regular captain Francke Horn, flyhalf Chris Smith and utility back Eduan Keyter are available for selection for Sunday’s URC round-two match in Parma.
  • Smith returns after missing the opener due to a concussion sustained in the Currie Cup final, with coaches emphasizing his role in directing play at No. 10.
  • Head coach Ivan van Rooyen cautioned that final availability would only be clear after travel assessments expected by midweek.
  • Zebre enter the fixture confident after defeating Edinburgh in round one, with coaches noting the Italian club’s recent improvement and resilience at home.
  • Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm South African time on Sunday as the Lions seek a sharper performance to rebound from their opening-round defeat.