Leinster’s wounded pride, home-ground advantage and star-studded squad make them overwhelming favourites for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-final in Dublin, but the Lions have made a habit of defying expectations this season.
Having already stunned bigger-name opponents during an impressive campaign, Ivan van Rooyen’s side will believe another upset is possible, provided their key men rise to the occasion against the defending champions who will be wounded by the past weekend's Champions Cup defeat.
The Lions captain and No 8 will need one of his trademark high-octane displays if the visitors are to trouble Leinster in Dublin. The tireless loose-forward is the emotional heartbeat of the side and will be crucial against Leinster.
Horn’s influence stretches well beyond defence. He is often the player who keeps attacks alive with smart support lines and linking play between the forwards and backs, while his relentless work-rate allows the Lions to maintain their tempo game.
His leadership will also be tested when momentum inevitably swings Leinster’s way and the pressure begins to build.
