Rugby: Lions thrash Cheetahs

Howard Minsi of the Lions makes some metres as his side defeated the Cheetahs 40-17 this morning in Blomfontein. Photo / Getty Images

The Lions spoiled the final Super Rugby home match of the Cheetahs under coach Naka Drotske with a bonus-point 40-17 South African derby triumph on Sunday morning in Bloemfontein.

A four-try victory at Free State Stadium kept alive the play-off hopes of a Johannesburg outfit who have exceeded expectations this season in the southern hemisphere championship.

Flawless goal-kicking by fly-half Elton Jantjies, good handling by backs and forwards, and powerful scrummaging were key factors in the comfortable success.

The Lions host Australia's defending champion NSW Waratahs next weekend before visiting compatriots Western Stormers in their final game and two victories could see them through to the knockout stages.

But there was no fairy-tale home ground finale for former Springbok hooker Drotske, who is stepping down this month after nine years guiding the Bloemfontein outfit.

Drotske will lead the Cheetahs for the last time next weekend away to the Stormers before starting a fire-extinguisher business.

The highlight of his long spell in charge was steering the Cheetahs to the play-offs two years ago.

Flanker Jaco Kriel, centre Lionel Mapoe, winger Courtnall Skosan and scrum-half Faf de Klerk scored a try each for the Lions, who led 23-3 at half-time in perfect late South African autumn conditions.

And Jantjies was back to his best goal-kicking form, not missing a shot as he slotted four conversions and four penalties for a 20-point contribution.

Flanker Boom Prinsloo scored two tries for the Cheetahs and replacement back Coenie van Wyk converted both.

-AAP

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