Maart’s magic powers Griquas past Cheetahs into Currie Cup final

The Suzuki Griquas made the most of their long-awaited return to Currie Cup semi-final action on home soil, defeating the Toyota Cheetahs 25-5 at Suzuki Park in Kimberley on Saturday night to book a place in next weekend’s final against the Fidelity ADT Lions at Ellis Park.

Playing their first home semi-final in 27 years, Griquas treated their fans to champagne knockout rugby as they struck twice in the opening minutes to build an early 12-0 lead. That platform proved decisive, as the Kimberley side’s defence and breakdown work repeatedly denied the motivated Cheetahs scoring chances.

The visitors showed their intent with a try midway through the first half, but unforced errors and misfiring set-pieces blunted their momentum. By contrast, Griquas tightened up their lineout after half-time and grew stronger as the game wore on, turning pressure into points.

Maart’s double the difference

Wing Dylan Maart was the standout performer, scoring both of his team’s second-half tries with moments of individual brilliance. His first came from chasing down a fortunate bounce and racing clear from deep inside his own half. 

His second, midway through the second half, showcased finishing skill as he dived spectacularly into the corner.

Flyhalf George Whitehead controlled play smartly behind a dominant pack and added 10 points with the boot, while centre Zane Bester’s strong running helped set up early momentum. 

Lock Albert Liebenberg also crossed for a try in the opening minutes, giving the hosts the start they wanted.

Cheetahs’ fight falls short

The Cheetahs showed glimpses of threat through winger Prince Nkabinde, who scored their only points, but they struggled to turn opportunities into sustained pressure. Their lineout misfires and errors at key moments proved costly, while Griquas’ discipline at the breakdown kept the visitors on the back foot.

By the final whistle, the Kimberley side’s greater accuracy and sharper execution had made the difference. And no doubt, the energy from the stands had fuelled their passion.

Looking ahead

The win sends Griquas into their second Currie Cup final in four years, where they will face the Lions, who advanced after a commanding victory over Boland earlier in the day.

While the huge challenge of the Lions in Joburg awaits, Griquas can take confidence from the way they combined clinical finishing with defensive steel to power through the season to earn this, their first home semi-final in nearly three decades, along with a brilliant victory.

And now, they need to dig deep to carry that form to Ellis Park to face a confident and hungry Lions team, who were denied victory in last year’s final, with the last kick of that game.