The Lions have surprised with a superb URC tour that culminated in three victories, in the process raising real hope that a talented squad finally has the ability to arrest years of underachievement.
Lions defence coach Jaque Fourie is starting to see green sprouts in terms of the team's marking, believing they're already "100% better" than last season.
It was a case of a different season, but same problems for the Lions as they were beaten by the Bulls in their United Rugby Championship opener at Ellis Park.