The Toyota Cheetahs will be keenly aware that the Suzuki Griquas know how to win at their home fortress, the Suzuki Stadium. Picture: Danie van der Lith
This weekend’s Carling Currie Cup Premier Division action promises to be pivotal, with top teams battling for a spot in the semi-finals.
The Suzuki Griquas face the defending champions, the Toyota Cheetahs in Kimberley on Friday afternoon, ahead of the top of the table showdown between the Vodacom Bulls and Fidelity ADT Lions in Pretoria.
Meanwhile, several other teams face make-or-break scenarios as the competition heats up.
First up, the defending champions will be involved in a critical match in Kimberley. The Cheetahs, who must beat Griquas on their home turf to stay in contention for a semi-final spot, are coming off a disappointing loss at home to the Lions.
They need to bounce back in Kimberley with a win if they want to have any hope of defending their title.
The Griquas, on the other hand, are looking to inject some life into what has been a lacklustre campaign. The team knows they can do better, and currently second from the bottom, they are determined to finish their season on a high note.
Despite their inconsistency, Griquas have shown flashes of brilliance, especially on the hard surfaces of Kimberley. The Cheetahs will need to dig deep and be at their best to overcome the challenge and keep their play-off hopes alive.
Date: Friday, 30 August
Venue: Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein
Time: 15h00
Referee: AJ Jacobs
TV: SS Rugby
The highlight of the weekend is the Jukskei Derby, a top-of-the-log clash between the Bulls and Lions. This match, taking place at Midstream College in Centurion, near Pretoria, is set to kick off at 5.15pm on Friday.
The Bulls, currently leading the standings with 36 points from seven wins and a draw, are looking to solidify their dominance. Their impressive form and history against their Gauteng rivals, coached by Mzwakhe Nkosi, make them favourites.
A win here would secure their number one status with a game to spare.
The Lions, however, are no pushovers. Known for their solid defence, attacking flair, and hard-working forward pack, they are ready to give the Bulls a run for their money, and as a result, the match promises to be an exciting encounter.
Date: Friday, 30 August
Venue: Midstream College, Centurion
Time: 17h15
Referee: Morne Ferreira
TV: SS Rugby
Saturday sees only one fixture, with the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV hosting the NovaVit Griffons in Durban at 1pm. Not counting the Bulls, the Sharks are the in-form team of the competition, boasting an unbeaten run of five games.
Their youthful energy and skill make them firm favourites against the Griffons, who will need to produce something special to challenge the KZN side on their home turf.
Date: Saturday, 31 August
Venue: Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
Time: 13h00
Referee: Paul Mente
TV: SS Rugby
The final match of the round takes place on Sunday in Stellenbosch, where DHL Western Province will face the Airlink Pumas at Danie Craven Stadium.
The Pumas, champions in 2022 and runners-up last year, know that only a win will keep their semi-final ambitions alive. Coached by the experienced Jimmy Stonehouse, the Pumas are prepared to give everything in this crucial encounter.
Western Province, despite a challenging season with only two wins from eight games, have the potential to surprise. But in order to achieve that their youthful squad, plagued by injuries, will need to step up against the more seasoned Pumas if they hope to end their season on a positive note.
Date: Sunday, 1 September
Venue: Danie Craven Stadium, Stellenbosch
Time: 15h00
Referee: Stephan Geldenhuys
TV: SS Rugby
With only two rounds remaining in the competition, every match counts as teams fight to secure their spots in the semi-finals, while others are out to redeem their pride.
Rugby fans can, therefore, expect an action-packed weekend with plenty of drama and excitement as the Currie Cup heads toward its thrilling climax.
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