Ivan van Rooyen says the Lions’ decision to play Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup match after “humble” Hyron Andrews’ death showed the character of the team.
The Lions lock died in France on Friday, and his teammates and management chose to honour him by taking the field for their Champions Cup debut against La Rochelle at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre, where they lost 31-14.
“The responses from all over the world on the team’s decision to play speaks to the man Hyron was,” said Van Rooyen. “He was a humble, gentle guy who people gravitated towards. He had the ability to pull people closer together.
“The team’s decision to play also speaks to the character of the team, the deep care for each other. The willingness to sacrifice self for a greater good.”
RECAP: Gutsy Lions do Hyron proud
A minute’s silence was held before kick-off, with a Lions No 5 jersey placed in front of the players, some of whom were in tears.
Van Rooyen praised the hosts for their support.
“The hotel staff were unbelievable the whole week, they are truly world class,” the head coach said. “On the Friday of Hyron’s passing, La Rochelle owner Vincent Merking, CEO Pierre Veneyre and head coach Ronan O’Gara all visited the hotel.
“Five players from La Rochelle also visited. The three South African players Salmaan Moerat, Dillyn Leyds and David Kriel were there all Friday afternoon.
“The respect from the crowd and staff was flabbergasting. The continuous applause from arrival to departure is something to be proud of.”
The Lions went toe-to-toe with the two-time European champions for 60 minutes. Henco van Wyk scored early and Morné Brandon added a converted try, but La Rochelle led 19-14 at half-time.
Lions scrumhalf Nico Steyn’s score following a Richard Kriel break was later ruled out for a forward pass.
“Immensely proud of the character shown,” Van Rooyen added. “The disallowed try in the 72nd minute would have put us in striking distance at 24-21.
“I felt we looked physically better than them at that stage. Unfortunately they didn’t award the try and that took the game away from us.”
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The Lions now refocus on URC tour matches against Edinburgh and the Glasgow Warriors over the next fortnight.
“We have two Friday night games against both Scottish teams who are both in good form,” said Van Rooyen.
“We are looking forward to spending quality time together as a team away from home over the next two weeks.”
Photo: Manuel Blondeau/Inpho
