Even after the 52-31 drubbing at the hands of the Lions two weeks ago, coach Robbie Fleck was optimistic that his team would win enough games away in the remainder of the competition to top the South African conference and thus automatically qualify for home ground advantage in the play-offs. But that plan was dependent on his team winning at Jonnsons Kings Park and a view that the Lions, who have always been comfortable leaders in the conference, would start dropping games once they got to Australasia for their four-match tour. After the latest round it became clear that neither scenario would eventuate – the Lions were outstanding in their big win over the Waratahs in Sydney, while the Sharks got home 24-17 in a battle of two teams who were desperate to win. “For us winning the conference is unfortunately no longer a reality, the Lions are running away with it,” said Fleck.