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Lions assistant coach Julian Redelinghuys says the players don’t need extra motivation as they prepare to host Connacht in the United Rugby Championship on Saturday.
The Pride is coming off a 42-31 loss to Benetton, a setback that puts them further behind in the playoff race.
Redelinghuys believes professional players know what’s at stake.
"Internal motivation is the right kind of motivation. The right players will have the right motivation, so as coaches, it's not really your job to motivate the guys, it's our job to get the guys properly prepped.
Naturally, for the team, after back-to-back bad performances, that is something that can influence your confidence and motivation. However, we drive the importance of internal motivation," explained Redelinghuys.
Redelinghuys has confirmed that Lions captain Francke Horn will miss the remainder of the URC season due to injury, one that he sustained in the loss against Benetton.
"We're not quite sure what the extent of his injury is, but we know he is not available for this weekend. He is our captain, and he is a massive loss for us, but the guys that are stepping up now are getting opportunities, which is very exciting," said the Lions assistant coach.
The Lions are on a five-match losing streak, and Redelinghuys admits the pressure is mounting on the coaching staff.
The Lions no longer have their playoff fate in their own hands and need results elsewhere to go their way over the next three weekends.
Sitting 14th on the URC log, scrumhalf Morné van den Berg says it’s time for the senior players to step up.
"Each individual has to take control of the situation and take responsibility for their role in the team. We, as the senior group, will look to rectify our shortcomings and lead the team really well," said the defiant scrumhalf.
Lions fans are growing frustrated with the team’s poor run of form. Another loss this weekend could mark the end of their season and possibly trigger more calls for changes to be made to the coaching staff.
