High-flying Lions clean up

Golden Lions mentor Johan Ackermann and flyhalf Elton Jantjies have been named as the Currie Cup Coach of the Month and Player of the Month for September.

Ackermann's calming influence has steadied the ship in Johannesburg, which has seen the defending champions deservedly top the log with just two rounds left before the play-offs.

Jantjies was instrumental in the Lions' success during September, with his superb kicking and attacking ability giving his side a crucial edge.

The newly capped Springbok was named Man of the Match against the Free State Cheetahs and is one of the leading scorers in the competition with 77 points.

The announcements were made at two separate handovers on Wednesday with Ackermann receiving his award at Johannesburg Stadium and Jantjies at the Springbok team hotel.

Another deserving nominee was the Griquas Coach Pote Human who steered his side to three consecutive wins, pushing them into semifinal contention, after a slow start to their campaign.

In true Currie Cup fashion, several young players have produced stand-out performances with notable contenders for the award being the Western Province duo of centre Marcel Brache and hooker Scarra Ntubeni.

Players such as Sarel Pretorius and Willie Le Roux also stepped up to the challenge and were worthy nominees.