Half-time blitz blunted Bulls' charge

Golden Lions interim coach Johan Ackermann believes the tries his side scored on either side of the half-time break gave them the confidence they needed.

The Lions bounced back from a surprise loss to Griquas at home the previous week to record an impressive and rare 32-23 Currie Cup victory over the Blue Bulls at Loftus Versfeld at the weekend.

There was somewhat of a stalemate up until minutes before the break when the Lions scored their first try of the match, to launch them into the lead.

"I think the try just before half-time gave the guys some confidence and luckily we were able to take it through to the second half," Ackermann said.

"The backline was good but the forwards laid a good foundation from there."

Ackermann said while the side started out shakily they pulled through for a victory he was happy about no matter the venue.

"I had a good feeling after I spoke to the guys before the match and I could feel that they looked mentally better than last week and the attitude was right," he said.

"But I also knew both sides were with their backs against the wall and it would be tough, especially that first 20 minutes."

With less team's contesting the title, ergo there was also less matches and a smaller margin for error.

With their victory saw the Lions move into the second position on the log on 15 points at the halfway mark, but the positions have proven to constantly change.

"This competition is so equal, week after week you have to perform well and if you are just a little bit off your game you are going to make it hard for yourself," Ackermann said.

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