Johan Ackermann's side showed their teeth on Saturday afternoon when they impressively beat defending champions‚ the Highlanders‚ with a 42-30 victory at Ellis Park. And thus they earned a spot in the final for the first time in their history.
With no signs of nerves or being overwhelmed by playing in their first Super Rugby semifinal in 15 years‚ the Lions put in what was arguably their best performance of the season‚ making the defending champs look mediocre.
Even without the influential captain Warren Whiteley‚ stand-in leader Jaco Kriel led from the front with stellar contributions from Elton Jantjies and Lionel Mapoe.
The growth that Ackermann's side has shown over the past three years since the coach took over the reins reached its climax on Saturday afternoon.
The Lions have been arguably the best team of the competition this season‚ alongside the Hurricanes.
Next week in Wellington will prove just who between the two sides has the most muscle.
The Lions will be confident‚ given how well they have travelled this season.
The side will also be motivated by the prospect of clinching their first title of the competition‚ and also become the first SA side to lift the trophy since the Bulls in 2010.
TMG Digital/TMG Sport
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 