Challenge Cup: Lions look to clip Red Bulls' wings in Newcastle clash

The team from Johannesburg are eager for a solid performance after a disappointing loss to Benetton Rugby at Ellis Park this past weekend.

Despite the setback, Lions assistant coach Barend Pieterse remains upbeat ahead of this crucial clash against a high-flying Newcastle side that overcame Lyon in France last week.

"We really have confidence going into this match," Pieterse told the Lions website.

"You can see by how the guys have trained that there is a little bit of fresh energy. We have hope and we are positive that it's going to go the other way this weekend."

Head coach Ivan Rooyen has gone for a fairly fresh-faced side for Round 2, with an emphasis on testing squad depth and, most importantly, exposing new players to European conditions and competition.

Loose forward Jarod Cairns, who provides experience from the bench, is excited about the energy the guys will bring.

"We really have confidence going into this match," said Cairns.

"You can see by how the guys have trained that there is a little bit of fresh energy. We have hope and we are positive that it's going to go the other way this weekend."

In teams, WJ Steenkamp wears the captain's armband for this clash. Siba Qoma returns, with Renzo du Plessis completing the back row. Richard Kriel and Manny Rass combine in the centres, in a backline that sees the return of Rabz Maxwane. Gianni Lombard occupies the last line of defence at fullback.

Kick-off at Kingston Park is at 19:30 SA time.

Lions - 15 Gianni Lombard, 14 Rabz Maxwane, 13 Manuel Rass, 12 Richard Kriel, 11 Angelo Davids, 10 Sam Francis, 9 Nico Steyn, 8 WJ Steenkamp (c), 7 Siba Qoma, 6 Renzo du Plessis, 5 Rubem Schoeman, 4 Dylan Sjoblom, 3 RF Schoeman, 2 Morne Brandon, 1 Eddie Davids.

Replacements: 16 PJ Botha, 17 Leon Lyons, 18 Conraad van Vuuren, 19 Ruan Delport, 20 Jarod Cairns, 21 Haashim Pead, 22 Lubabalo Dobela, 23 Rynhard Jonker.