It’s a crucial week in the competition, with results likely to provide a clearer picture of the top four as the tournament reaches the halfway point.
For the Purple People Eaters, this is a golden opportunity to show that they are much better than the team that fell to a 71-7 defeat against the Suzuki Griquas in Kimberley. They have also built a reputation for punching above their weight against their bigger neighbors from Bloemfontein.
It remains to be seen whether rock-solid flyhalf and captain Duan Pretorius, who has led the team more than 100 times, will be fit after a heavy blow against the Boland Cavaliers a few weeks ago. He has been training and could return after missing the Leopards and Griquas.
Whatever the case, the Griffons are always up for a fight against the Cheetahs, and recent history between the sides proves this. In 2024, the Griffons stunned the Cheetahs with a 36-33 win in Welcome, while last year they pushed hard before going down 38-31 in Bloemfontein.
George Lourens, Duan Pretorius and Prince Nkabinde. Photo: Morgan Piek
This was said by the powerful inside center Jandré de Beer, who was the captain of the team during Pretorius’ absence. OFM Sports it’s a fixture that doesn’t need any extra motivation.
“Yes, for us it is always a big challenge and I think we are well prepared. We suffered a decent defeat against the Griquas in the last round and we used this week to put things right. Hopefully we can apply that this weekend.”
“The Cheetahs are a team that play at a fast pace and have strong set piece skills – it’s never easy here in Welcome.
“I think both teams are aware of what is at stake and want to go out to prove a point. For us it’s about playing the full 80 minutes and focusing on what we do best.”
Loosehead prop Justin Forwood, who previously played for the Cheetahs and now represents the Griffons, told OFM Sports they are relishing the chance to compete against top-flight opponents as they pursue a return to the Currie Cup Premier Division after losing their status last year.
Justin Forwood. Photo: Morgan Piek
“This weekend will be a tough battle. I think all the Griffons boys know what is at stake: we need to finish in the top four of the SA Cup to qualify for the Currie Cup Premier Division,” Forwood said.
“It will be a physical match and we need to dominate the set pieces and execute our attacking plan. Our past performances have not been great and there is a lot we need to improve.”
“For us it’s about focusing on ourselves, our plan and our execution. That said, the boys are ready and we’re all looking forward to a big game.”
Saturday’s long-awaited Free State derby in the DTI Stadium in Welcome starts at 3 p.m.
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