Marnitz Boshoff has been ruled out for 12 weeks after fracturing his arm during the Golden Lions' 41-13 victory over the Blue Bulls.

The flyhalf, who played a pivotal role in setting up the Lions' victory, left the field with 30 minutes remaining after suffering a blow to his right forearm. Following a scan this morning, the Lions worst fears were realised, and he'll undergo surgery later today.

The injury should keep him sidelined for up to 12 weeks, making it highly unlikely that he'll feature again for the Lions during their Currie Cup campaign.

There was more bad news for the Lions as Anthony Volmink (shoulder) and SA U20 wing Lloyd Greeff (knee) were also ruled out for the remainder of the season.

While Ackermann admits that it's a massive blow to lose last season's top Currie Cup point-scorer, he believes that he has the players at his disposal to cope in Boshoff's continued absence.

'In the squad there are a number of guys like the U21 flyhalf [Ashlon Davids]. There's also Andries Coetzee and Ross Cronje who can play flyhalf. We will reassess everything and see, if needed, who will take the responsibility.'

On Saturday it was 20-year-old Jaco van der Walt who filled the void, and Ackermann confirms that he is the favourite to be handed the role on a regular basis.

'Jaco will be the first choice to take that role, if that will be necessary.

'He is a talented player and he'll still be under 21 next year. That shows the talent that he's got. Obviously Marnitz is also a match-winner and will be a big loss.'

Van der Walt didn't look out of place directing the Lions backline, despite it being his first Currie Cup match. Outside of him, Harold Vorster was another debutant who showed himself capable of making the step up.

'What was most pleasing for me was the performance of the youngsters – Harold [Vorster] and Jaco van der Walt,' admits Ackermann.

'It's good for us if these guys can show that kind of maturity so early. They will definitely grow from here.'

Photo: Duif du Toit/Gallo Images