Following good wins against Denmark and China in the opening round of IC11 last weekend, the South African Lions continued their good form in Sydney today (Wed Aug 17) to overcome a gusty Japanese team to win by 84 points.

Although the wet conditions weren't suited for the South African side as their speed was diminished, they adjusted quickly and finished off with a win against a courageous Japanese side by 13 goals.

"The boys played well in tough conditions but there is still lots of room for improvement ahead of the big game against the USA this Sunday at ANZ Stadium", said Head Coach Stewart Edge.

Port Melbourne recruit Bayanda Sobetwa continued to impress up forward with 4 goals to back up the 5 he kicked against China last Saturday, whilst Khaya Sikiti and Tshobolko Moagi were once again instrumental in setting up the LIons win, after stints with South Launceston FC this year.

Tshepiso Mogapi was also outstanding as an emerging leader in a new look Lions outfit that has retained only 9 players from the team of 2008.

Just as pleasing though was the form of Cape Town ruckman Zola Mitiwetafa who has only a handful of games behind his hefty frame.

The Lions should go into this Sunday's game quietly confident, after a good win against the stars and stripes in 2008 but will not underestimate the size of the task against physically much stronger opposition.

South Africa Lions 14.9 (93) def Japan Samurais 1.3 (9) 

South Africa

Goal Kickers: B. Sobetwa 4, S. Matshane 2, W. Jonker , K. Sikiti , Z. Mitiwetafa , M. Hlomela , S. Gamakulu , K. Marokoane , B. Motuba 

Best Players: B. Sobetwa, T. Mogapi, W. Jonker, Z. Mitiwetafa, T. Moagi, K. Sikiti

Japan

Goal Kickers: H. Ichinose 

Best Players: Y. Kuno, H. Ono, M. Sakaki, K. Sato, T. Kase, H. Ichinose