On December 14, 2024, the Emirates Lions secured their first victory of the EPCR Challenge Cup, triumphing over French side Section Paloise (Pau) with a score of 43-35 at Ellis Park, Johannesburg. The match, which was marked by dramatic weather conditions, featured two interruptions due to thunderstorms, creating unique challenges for both teams.
The game initially kicked off after multiple delays, starting at 6:15 p.m., rather than the scheduled time. Thunderstorms throughout the match led to stoppages, including one significant 30-minute delay early in the second half. Yet, both teams managed to put on an entertaining display for the sparse crowd, making it clear how much was at stake.
Pau opened the scoring early, thanks to Dan Jooste, who crossed the try line following strong attacking play. His try was converted by flyhalf Axel Desperes, putting the visitors up by seven points after just ten minutes. The Lions quickly answered back with Edwill van der Merwe showcasing his skills, scoring his try just two minutes later, with Kade Wolhuter successfully converting to level the match.
Action continued to ebb and flow between both sides as Pau regained the lead with another penalty from Desperes shortly thereafter. The Lions, exhibiting tenacity, kicked off their response with another try, this time from scrumhalf Morné van den Berg, pushing the score to 14-10. The momentum shifted again as Pau took advantage, with Desperes converting two more penalties to reclaim the lead before halftime, ending the first half at 19-16, thanks to PJ Botha's late try for the Lions.
“It was a hard-fought win, and we had to stay composed under pressure,” expressed Wolhuter post-match, emphasizing the impact of the weather and the team dynamics during the game. "The conditions were challenging, but both teams put on a good performance," added PJ Botha, highlighting the resilience of all players.
After halftime, Pau looked like they would take control when Desperes scored again, pushing the score to 23-19. The Lions, undeterred, took advantage of Pau's defensive errors. Within minutes, they capitalized on two yellow cards issued against Pau players Gregoire Arfeuil and Lekima Tagitagivalu for deliberate knockdowns and collapsing the maul, respectively. The Lions were awarded a penalty try, followed by another try scored by Juan Schoeman, extending their lead.
Despite the interruptions, both teams remained competitive until the end. The Lions' advantage kept extending as Ruben Schoeman added his mark to the score sheet, bringing the score to 40-23. Pau, not to be left behind, responded quickly with tries from Romain Ruffenach and Josselin Bouhier, earning them bonus points as well.
With Kade Wolhuter kicking four conversions and adding penalties, the Lions managed to keep their lead intact, besting the visitors’ attempts to mount any significant comeback even as the rain created slipping conditions underfoot. “We gave our all, and even with the delays, we stayed focused,” said Tippawa Mafura, the Lions fullback.
This match marked a significant turnaround for the Lions, who had suffered three defeats prior to this fixture, including one against the Ospreys just the week before. They now have momentum heading forward as they prepare for their next challenge against the DHL Stormers later this month.
“This win gives us the confidence we need as we approach the next matches,” added Mafura, underlining the importance of their performance. The Lions look to build upon this victory as they strive to remain competitive as the Challenge Cup progresses.
With both teams securing bonus points, Pau can take pride in their effort, showcased by their spirited comeback, even allowing them to overcome the challenges posed by poor weather. They will look to build on their promising performance as they advance through the remainder of the Challenge Cup. The Lions, now rejuvenated, have sparked excitement among their supporters and have set their eyes on progression toward the knockout stages.
