Sidestep

Lions coach Johan Ackerman considering Gloucester job. It’s been a while since the Lions looked as uncertain as they were on Thursday afternoon. Many will remember a time when the Johannesburg franchise struggled in the Super Rugby competition. During those dark days, they looked clueless on and off the field. Over the last three years or so their fortunes have changed for the better, thanks mainly to Johan Ackermann and his coaching staff. Last year, the Lions were undoubtedly the kings of the domestic jungle, finishing the competition without a loss in the local derbies. They also impressed against foreign sides before eventually losing to the Hurricanes in the final. Since hard work hardly goes unnoticed in sport, Johan Ackermann has become a wanted man by overseas clubs with overseas currency. Gloucester who are looking to replace coach Laurie Fisher have approached Ackermann who confirmed as much, in a press conference before facing the Reds. ...