Ellis Park derby between Lions and Sharks could shake up URC top eight

Saturday marks the return of the United Rugby Championship (URC) following the Six Nations break, with the Lions and Sharks set to battle at Ellis Park in a derby carrying significant playoff implications.

Currently outside the top eight on the official log, a victory for either team will propel them into a playoff spot, while the loser could still move into that territory if they collect two losing points from the clash.

They are the only teams in action this coming weekend and will conclude their Round 9 commitments — initially scheduled for 26 December 2025 — after the fixture was postponed.

While both teams know there is a chance to leapfrog the Bulls and Ospreys, currently in seventh and eighth — even with a draw — the Sharks will be focused on maintaining their winning run. They completed a double over the Stormers in January and will look to that momentum to carry them into Johannesburg.

Their players had a break and will be recharged for what awaits in the Lions’ Den.

Under interim head coach JP Pietersen, they have arrested the poor form that plagued them at the start of the season and are currently on a three-match winning streak, which they will be eager to extend.

However, they lost to the Lions in Durban last month and know the battle in Gauteng will not be an easy task. The opportunity for revenge will serve as strong motivation, as will the chance to climb the URC standings.

For the home side, plenty of work lies ahead if they are to break into the top eight. They returned from overseas with momentum, but the Bulls pulled the rug from under their feet with a runaway victory, and suddenly Ellis Park no longer feels like the fortress they believed it to be.

Plainly put, the Lions must be significantly better than in their last outing if they want to stand a chance of beating the high-flying Sharks. A handful of former Lions players, who switched allegiance to the Durban outfit in recent seasons, could be back in Johannesburg — adding extra spice to the contest.

Certain senior players must put their hands up in front of their home fans; if they cannot, the season could quickly go downhill from there.

The Stormers are the next visitors to Ellis Park and will be looking for a soft target as they attempt to break their current two-match losing streak. Any momentum gained from the Sharks clash will be vital as the Lions aim to secure a place in the URC’s top eight for the first time this season.