One last challenge

The scene is set for one last epic challenge, as the Southern Kings and Lions prepare to meet for their promotion / relegation play off, to claim a spot in next years Super Rugby competition.

The fact that the Southern Kings made history in their first ever Super Rugby match when they beat the visiting Western Force. Managed a draw against the Brumbies in Australia, their first away win against the Rebels and a bonus point win over the Highlanders at home will count for nothing when they face the Lions in their first match in Port Elizabeth on Friday night.

The Lions who were relegated at the end of last years Super Rugby competition, when they finished last in the South African Conference will surely enter the promotion / relegation matches with a lot of confidence. They have been unbeaten during the season, but even that will all be in the past when these two teams take the field. Crowned as the Vodacom Cup Champions and unbeaten during the Lions Challenge, with only the Sharks and Griquas giving them a good run for their money.

Acting CEO Charl Crous, urged the people of the region to once again come out in their numbers and show their support, to stand up and be counted. He also called on the people to wear black, as a way of  showing their support for the Southern Kings.

“Once again we have opted to give the best value for money and will be sticking to our standard price range, from R30 to R110 per ticket, as we did for the other super rugby matches,” said Crous.

Crous said aside from the Super Rugby promotion / relegation game, spectators would also be able to catch the ABSA Currie Cup First Division game between the EP Kings and the Boland Cavaliers, which kicks off at 4:15pm.

“After a tough start to the season the EP Kings will be fighting to try and regain their place at the top of the ABSA Currie Cup first division log, with the hopes of still making it to the promotion /relegation games for a spot in premier division,” he said.

This game will then be followed by the first of two matches against the MTN Lions, which kicks off at 7.10pm. The second match will be played in Johannesburg on Saturday, the 3rd of August, the time is still to be confirmed.

“As for the Super Rugby playoffs, we are aware that it’s do or die and our players are doing everything they can to prepare themselves for what is going to be a titanic clash. But we cannot do this alone.”