It has been 12 long weeks since Lions coach Eugene 'Loffie' Eloff and his squad have tasted victory in the Super 14, but the past weekend afforded him that special feeling again.

The Lions welcomed back a few experienced bodies such as Jaque Fourie, and it certainly made the difference as they proceeded to outgun the highly-rated Chiefs at Ellis Park.

With the 33-27 win the Lions also dealt a near-fatal blow to the play-off hopes of the Chiefs, who now have to win their final match, and hope for other results to go their way if they are to make the top four.

Lions coach Eloff was full of praise for his team in his regular Monday column on the Lions official site.

"How great was that win over the mighty Chiefs," asked the coach, who has had only a draw and nine losses to show for his troubles since a Round One win against the Cheetahs.

"It was an awesome feeling to see our boys win again. They worked so hard for it and it was long overdue and well deserved. And to outplay one of the top teams in the competition, against all odds, a great achievement.

"We did the Sharks and the Stormers a huge favour, but Saturday coming it's pride and passion that will prevail.

The coach praised his star Springbok centre, who had a big influence in stabilising the midfield.

"Welcome back Jaque Fourie!!" enthused Eloff, before going into details about the match tactics.

"This game was won by a good tactical plan, solid defense but most of all, a huge team effort. We hope and plan to continue our form this weekend and end the Super 14 off on a high note."

Eloff did not forget to thank the sporadic yet staunch supporters of the Lions who showed up to see the match against the Chiefs.

 

"To the Lions supporters that watched the match at the park, thanks for your loyal support throughout the Super 14.

"I know the team appreciated your loud, inspiring, enthusiastic support, you made a noise that motivated them and it sounded as if there were 40 000  people at Ellis Park."

Eloff also appealed to all Lions fans to put their faith in their rejuvenated team this coming weekend.

"Saturday is the BIG one. A local derby against the Stormers and it promises to be a cracker of a game.

"It would be wonderful if we can have all our supporters here in RED supporting their team. It's a 3pm kick-off, so weather permitting it could be a great outing. So get here [Ellis Park] please!"

365