Griquas face final hurdle as Pumas await in Mbombela SA Cup climax

Griquas plot Pumas revenge in SA Cup final showdown

The Suzuki Griquas are bracing for a monumental clash against the unbeaten Airlink Pumas in Saturday’s SA Cup final in Mbombela — a rematch that’s as much about redemption as it is about silverware.

A final with history and high stakes

The Griquas booked their spot in the title decider with a thrilling 41–38 semi-final victory over the Toyota Cheetahs in Kimberley — a match described by fans as “electric” and “rugby theatre at its best.”

Captain George Whitehead’s booming late penalty sealed the result in a rollercoaster contest that saw the Griquas claw back from an early 12–3 deficit and trade blows with the Cheetahs in a relentless try-fest. Hooker Jaco Uys bagged two maul tries, and Gurshwin Wehr’s sideline dash showcased the Griquas’ attacking threat, while Whitehead’s composure under pressure proved decisive.

“It was an incredible effort from the team,” said head coach Pieter Bergh. “To go into a final with the same 23-man squad after two physical games is something quite special — it might even be a first for us this season.”

Tactical chess match in Mbombela

Now, the stage is set for a tactical showdown against the Pumas, who edged the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers 31–29 in their own semi-final thanks to a clutch penalty from flyhalf Danrich Visagie. The win preserved their unbeaten run and earned them home-ground advantage in the Lowveld.

Bergh anticipates a battle of styles.

“The Pumas are very physical — they have big backs and forwards who carry hard. We’ve got smaller, quicker players. It’ll be a clash of styles, and it’ll come down to execution, discipline, and smart decision-making,” he said.

In their last encounter, the Pumas dominated the aerial duels and exposed the Griquas out wide, but Bergh believes his side learned valuable lessons.

“We had them under real pressure when we held onto the ball. They couldn’t match our tempo. That’s something we’ll look to use again — but we also have to respect their power game and the way they control the set pieces.”

Identity, unity and emotional fuel

The Griquas have earned a reputation for their fearless attacking rugby — something Bergh doesn’t plan to abandon on Saturday.

“We’ve played an attacking brand of rugby all season. That’s who we are. In a final, you don’t suddenly become conservative. But you have to be smart. Finals are won in moments — decision-making, defence, and discipline matter more than ever.”

Behind the scenes, there’s also a sense of family and shared purpose driving the campaign. The union is flying up the non-playing squad to be part of the matchday experience.

“Thanks to the board for making that possible. It shows what this team is about. We want everyone who contributed this season to be part of the final,” said Bergh.

Some players will be moving on after this weekend, adding emotional weight to the occasion.

“This is our last game together as a group. Some players have served this union with distinction. That gives us extra motivation — we want to send them off with something special.”

From SA Cup to Currie Cup

While Saturday’s final is the immediate focus, Bergh is already thinking ahead to the upcoming Currie Cup campaign — and how to maintain momentum.

“Last year, we beat the Pumas by 20 in the SA Cup final, but they came back and hammered us in the Currie Cup — including a 40-point defeat. We gave the players too long a break, and we weren’t sharp at the start. This year, we’ll go straight into a mini pre-season to keep our edge.”

The step up in intensity between the SA Cup and Currie Cup is not lost on Bergh, but he sees the current run as the ideal springboard.

“It’s a great opportunity for us as a union. We’ve been tested and challenged, and the boys have responded. This final is a reward for that effort — now we want to finish the job.”

History on the line

A sold-out Mbombela Stadium is expected, with home fans eager to witness a perfect season. But the Griquas, who have already proven they can thrive under pressure, are chasing more than a trophy — they’re chasing legacy.

This isn’t just a repeat final. It’s a chance to rewrite the narrative, to back up last year’s triumph, and to show that belief, identity and unity can still punch above weight in South African rugby.

And if Bergh’s men can deliver once again, that teal-and-white flame will burn even brighter in 2025.