The Lions chased winter away from Rudeš with a victory over Čelik from Zenica, announcing what promises to be a very exciting spring season.

Zagreb started the match with confidence, controlling the tempo and territory from the opening whistle. After 13 minutes of play in the opposition’s half and several missed opportunities, the Lions finally crossed the line through returning player Vodušek to take a 5–0 lead. The visitors looked disorganized and struggled to connect their plays, while Zagreb continued to dominate. Debutant Kostić spotted an open gap along the touchline and dived over to extend the lead to 10–0.

After halftime, Čelik increased the tempo and managed to score a converted try, cutting Zagreb’s lead to 10–7. The match grew tense, but the young Lions quickly struck back through Roguljić, who finished an excellent move down the left wing to make it 15–7.

Unfortunately, the match took an unexpected turn when several Čelik players reacted violently toward the referee, forcing an early end to the game. The result at the time of interruption, 15–7 in favor of Zagreb, was confirmed as final. We hope the club from Zenica resolves these disciplinary issues so that their younger players do not tarnish the long-standing reputation of Čelik — a respected rugby institution. As everyone knows, rugby is a gentleman’s sport built on respect for teammates, opponents, and, above all, referees.

Despite a few handling errors and lost lineouts, Zagreb’s performance was solid and determined. Missing seven first-team regulars due to injuries and other obligations, the team showed impressive depth and the growing strength of its young core — making this victory all the more meaningful.

Next up is a tour to Treviso, Italy, where Zagreb will support their fellow “Lions” of Benetton Treviso in their European Cup clash with Edinburgh. It’s been a strong season for the Italian Lions, and we look forward to cheering on our brotherly, lion-hearted club. ?

Zagreb lineup: Petar Šuklje, 2. Marko Livaić, 3. Luka Juss, 4. Ivan Belobrajdić, 5. Darko Fatović, 6. Šimun Krmek, 7. Dylan Rowe, 8. Martin Rešković (c), 9. Lauro Kostić (5), 10. Lovro Roguljić (5), 11. Filip Čapelnik, 12. Luka Ban, 13. Kruno Vodušek (5), 14. Jan Juričić, 15. Ervin Kostanjšak, 16. Vid E. Vukovac, 17. Alexandar Holjevac, 18. Josip Juraj Zelić, 19. Juraj Ban.