Hits & Misses: Brave Lions and fine wine Rudolph

Rugby365's Wynona Louw reviews the opening round of European cup rugby, highlighting a commendable performance by the Lions despite their 14-31 Champions Cup defeat to La Rochelle. Playing shortly after the tragic death of lock Hyron Andrews, the Lions earned widespread praise for their bravery and composure, with the French crowd paying tribute through a fifth-minute round of applause and a standing ovation.

Elsewhere, South African sides enjoyed strong results across both competitions. The Bulls secured a dominant 56-20 win over Stade Francais, the Stormers defeated Bristol Bears 49-12, and an understrength Sharks side pulled off a thrilling 40-33 Challenge Cup victory over Lyon via an 82nd-minute try from Litelithle Bester.