It was a weekend of two tales for both teams, with Ulster experiencing the high of a last- minute victory against Glasgow in Round 1 of the URC and the Lions suffering a 16-14 Currie Cup Final defeat in extra time to Hollywoodbets Sharks.
To rub salt in the wounds, their former player, Jordan Hendrikse, scored the winning 60m penalty to secure the trophy at Emirates Airline Park.
No doubt the Lions will be licking their wounds this week and look to get back on the prowl this Saturday against the Ulstermen.
Ivan Van Rooyen's side will be looking to build on their strong end of the 2023/24 season, when they almost pushed into the top eight after a good run of results. In their end of season push, the Lions recorded notable victories against Connacht in Galway and two home wins against Leinster and Glasgow Warriors, who would go on to win the title.
One area of the game Ulster will have to be across their detail on will be the scrum set-piece, with Emirates Lions ranking number 1 in the URC last season for success percentages at the scrum. (94.9%)
The Johannesburg based side also ranked first for turnover tries (17), showing if the opposition give them the chance, they will snap at the breakdown and turn over ball to attack from.
Match Details
🏟️ Emirates Airline Park
📅 Saturday 28th September
🕰️ 11.55am (UK time)
🏆 BKT United Rugby Championship, Round 2
📺 Premier Sports
Last time out
The last time Ulster visited the Lions resulted in a thriller in the baking sun at Emirates Airline Park.
Ulster piled on the points during an Emirates Lions sin-binning before holding off a home fightback to win 39-37 in Johannesburg.
Ulster trailed 18-10 when Henco van Wyk was yellow-carded shortly before half-time, with Rob Baloucoune’s early try having been cancelled out by scores from Emmanuel Tshituka and Francke Horn.
However, Billy Burns, Rob Lyttle and Stuart McCloskey all went over in Van Wyk’s absence, while Rob Herring added his own name to the scoresheet shortly after the centre’s return from the bin.
Tries from Andries Coetzee and Quan Horn, plus a second for Francke Horn, set up a tense finale but Ulster clung on to victory.
Players to watch
Juan Schoeman:
The big loosehead prop returns to his native South Africa after a four year stint at Bath Rugby. The 33 year-old has also played for the Bulls and the Sharks earlier in his career.
Sanele Nohamba:
A half-back who had a superb season for the Lions last year, Nohamba, can play at nine or ten and is a major threat for opposition with his kicking game. The playmaker was named the 2024 Vodacom URC Player of the Season after racking up 117 points in total with 31 conversions, 14 penalties, and one drop-goal slotted over bar. He also made seven try assists, showing his eye for creating attacking opportunities.
Quan Horn:
23-year-old full-back, Quan Horn, has a real ability to break through defences and create scoring opportunities, making him a really exciting prospect for the Lions. His growth and potential impact this season could be pivotal.