The unbeaten Benetton hosted the Emirates Lions who were still looking for their first win of the 2023/24 United Rugby Championship season. The Emirates Lions have only themselves to blame for this 10-15 loss, guilty of wasting scoring opportunities and half-hearted defence.
Benetton opened the scoring with an early try to which the Lions replied with a converted penalty. Benetton led 07-03 at the end of the first half. The second half produced a bit more excitement, however, a try by Benetton with 8 minutes still to play in the second half secured their 15-10 win in a match that will not be remembered for a long time.
Benetton scored their first try after just 5 minutes of play. Center Malakai Fekitoa stretched to score Benetton's first try following some great handling by Benetton and some questionable defensive efforts by the Lions.
Jordan Hendrikse converted a penalty to open the visitors' account after 18 minutes of play. The first quarter was full of early season mistakes by both teams, however, Benetton still led 07-03.
No points were scored during the final 20 minutes of the first half in this error-ridden borefest.
After 15 minutes of play in the second half, Jacob Umaga converted a penalty for Benetton to extend their lead to 10-03.
Asenathi Ntlabakanye bulldozed his way over Benetton's tryline following several pick-up-and-drives from the Lions as they hammered against the great defence of Benetton. With 16 minutes still to play the score is all level at 10-10.
Six minutes later winger Ignacio Mendy scored a team try in the corner to claim the lead back again to Benetton. Benetton led 15-10 with 8 minutes of the second half to play.
Scorers:
Benetton: Tries: Malakai Fekitoa, Ignacio Mendy. Conversion: Tomas Albornoz. Penalty: Jacob Umaga.
Emirates Lions: Try: Asenathi Ntlabakanye. Conversion: Sanele Nohamba. Penalties: Jordan Hendrikse